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Richard Hayes is running for District 2 in Hinesville
Pastor Hayes
Richard Hayes - photo by Photo provided.

What issues are most important to you and why?

Small business: As our community continues to grow, I think the plight of small businesses are a growing concern because of the influx of major chains coming into our community with tax breaks and advantages that aren’t afforded to small businesses. We need to give our small businesses support and advantages that will make our business assets unique, diverse, and successful.


Youth investment: Children are one of our most valuable resources, but also one of our smallest investments. I believe that our youth need more than another program or guest speaker, they need an example and an opportunity to be in control of their future as well as active in their community while young with a role model, and the support of great leaders to help them along the way.


Hinesville pride: In the age of social media, the antics and issues of municipal leadership are on display for the world to see. I wholeheartedly believe in the greatness of Hinesville. It’s not the military base, it’s not the closeness to the Savannah ports and I-95 that makes us great, but the collective efforts of all these entities, along with a melting pot of hard-working, passionate citizens. Together we can continue to make this city better and allow our Hinesville pride to be a beacon of light for the world to see.


What makes you the best candidate to serve city council?

Every day I’m placed in a tough decision-making process that could result in loss of life or millions of dollars in damages, as an Air Traffic Controller. I’m ready to connect with everyday working people, hear their concerns, and make the difficult choices to push this city forward. With my military background, compassion as a pastor, and years of community service, I’m prepared to help lead this city to be the best it can be.


Why run for office now? What needs to be accomplished by city officials that is not being done?

I decided to run for office because I believe we are at a critical juncture in our future growth and I have a lot to offer by advocating for all residents while bridging the gap between them, local government, and the business community. I’m thankful for the job of the current administration, but I believe that we’ve got to get back to the basics of engaging people throughout the entire term, and functioning as a team dedicated to making this city more united and stronger.


How long have you been a resident of the city?

I have lived in Hinesville for over 14 years.


Your age, professional/educational background and public service/volunteerism.

I’m 45 years old. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Columbia College and an Associate’s Degree in Marketing from Savannah Technical College. I’ve served 10 years in the United States Army as an Air Traffic Control Specialist. I’ve served as Pastor of New Day Community Church, President of the United Ministerial Alliance, President of the Liberty County Kiwanis Club, Vice President of the United Way of Liberty County Board, Vice President of the Midway Middle School Governance Team, member of the Hinesville Area Arts Council, and a member of the Coastal Regional Commission of Georgia. I’ve also organized the Hinesville Mayor’s Thanksgiving Service and the National Day of Prayer events for the past six years.

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