Billy Gaines and Lonnie Kersey seek to represent the Republican Party in the Ray County presiding commissioner’s race.

The two will face off in the Aug. 2 primaries, with the winner to face Democrat Shirley (Bush) O’Dell in November in the general elections. November’s winner will succeed Bob King, who has announced his retirement.

The Richmond News gathered some information on both GOP candidates and asked a few questions:

BACKGROUND

Gaines, 47, lives in Richmond. He has a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice and an A.A. in business administration. Retired from the U.S. Army, he works for Special Needs Service of Ray County.

Kersey, 59, lives in Rayville. He completed 2-1/2 years of college and is retired.

CANDIDACY QUESTIONS

Q. What relevant political/work experience do you have?

Gaines: “No political work yet; 22 years military, two years law enforcement and four years as a support coordinator.”

Kersey: “Dedicated health care professional for the last 30-plus years. My history includes progressively responsible roles in Fortune 25 companies to include: accounts payable, purchasing, inventory management, capital asset procurement, pharmacy automation sales, account manager, regional sales manager, director of sales, and more titles and responsibilities along the way.

“I’ve spent the last 13 years indirectly helping those with rare and chronic diseases and as a volunteer with the MGA of KC (Myasthenia Gravis Association).

“I believe the extensive knowledge and experience of the business world will be a good foundation to draw from, should the voters decide to elect me as the next presiding commissioner of Ray County. I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the near future!”

Q. Why are you running for office?

Gaines: “I believe, if you want change, you need to get involved. I want to always leave something better than I found it, so I want the people of Ray County to stay here and grow as cheaply as possible.”

Kersey: “I believe there are many issues facing our community and I’d like the opportunity to ensure (the) best possible outcomes for everyone involved, regardless of political affiliation.”

ISSUE QUESTIONS

Both candidates were asked the following questions, with a 50-word limit per question.

Q. What skills do you bring to the table that qualify you for the Ray County Commission?

Gaines: “Not afraid of work, problemsolving skills, communication skills, leadership skills, knowledge and integrity.”

Kersey: “Skills honed and sharpened in the business arena are an absolute benefit to the county on multiple fronts. From high-profile project management, profit and loss analysis (to) negotiating multimillion-dollar contracts and managing over (a) $128-million budget. Leadership skills acquired in all phases of hiring/ firing/training/mentoring and coaching/ development plans and more. It takes teamwork to make the dream work!”

Q. Ray County Jail improvements need a lot of attention. What ideas do you have to address these needs on a limited budget?

Gaines: “I feel there is new business to bring in to make revenue off of to help fund a new jail and turn the jail into a revenue-producing business to help fund the law enforcement community. We need to look at how the tax money is being used.”

Kersey: “This will require a multifaceted and necessary change sooner than later. As I see it currently, the population housed currently should be drawn down. Certain individuals require additional concerns and measures. Those folks should be transferred to a better equipped facility. Sections can then be renovated and improved accordingly. I believe, with proper coordination, this process could be completed to acceptable standards. From what I’ve seen so far, there are some policies and procedures that need a sharper focus as well.”

Q. If sales revenue is a major source of the county’s income, what role should the commission play in bringing more business to the county?

Gaines: “I feel the commission plays a key role to scout businesses and give them the best opportunity to come to Ray County. We have places in Orrick, Henrietta, Lawson and Hardin that could use some new business to help boost their economy, too.”

Kersey: No response.

Q. Who can the commission partner with to help improve the county as a whole?

Gaines: “A good partner would be the state representatives, MO Department of Economic Development and County Commissioners Association of MO.”

Kersey: “I would be open to work with anyone to benefit the taxpayers of Ray County. Existing business growth is a main focus while seeking to attract new businesses to the county.”

Q.: In your opinion, what are the largest concerns in the county that you will address as commissioner?

Gaines: “Following the Missouri State Statute and what the commission should have oversight of in the county agencies.”

Kersey: “I think there are a few areas that deserve some serious additional attention. We all know and hear about the county jail, for starters. I’d like to hear from all county employees for input on how we can do better. The folks in the trenches need to be heard. My biggest concern is the ‘divide’ in this country. We need to bring our community back to the center and we will accomplish what needs to be done. We live here, it’s our community and we are better together.”