Fort Oglethorpe will hold a special election Tuesday, March 19, to fill the unexpired term of former Ward 5 council member Eddie Stinnett, who died in November 2012. There are two candidates for the Ward 5 post: Judd Burkhart, 65, a real estate agent and former Fort Oglethorpe mayor and council member, and Clarence “Clay” Kissner, 37, a paving contractor and political newcomer. Early voting will be held Feb. 25 through March 15 at city hall. The winner of the March 19 election will serve through the end of 2013. Another election for the Ward 5 post will be held Nov. 5, 2013.

Clarence “Clay” Kissner says the most important issues for him come from his observations as a citizen of Fort Oglethorpe for the past 14 years.

Kissner said he wants to create a stronger working relationship between the city council and the citizens of Fort Oglethorpe.

“I feel like the citizens have lost their voice and I want to reconnect that,” Kissner said.

Another key item Kissner has observed is the struggle for seniors on a fixed income. A helping hand would be keeping taxes low so locals have more affluence, he said.

Kissner wants to strengthen the council, create council workshops and keep the city growing with strong family values. Kissner believes there is a disconnect between the city council and department heads. In creating monthly workshops, the city leaders could learn and understand the needs of the community and hear reports from department heads, he said.

When it comes to having alcohol sales on Sunday, Kissner says, “I don’t think booze it going to make a difference on the future of any city.”

If there is a difference in revenue because of alcohol sales in Ringgold and Catoosa County, Kissner said he will take a look into it. Kissner said the people’s choice was evident in the election just over a year ago, in which the measure was defeated by a slim margin.

“If it comes back up, I will take a look into it,” Kissner said.

Kissner was born in Fort Oglethorpe and grew up in the county just two houses outside of the city limits. He is a Lakeview High School graduate and has completed business management courses.

Kissner started his own seal coating company in 1996. It has expanded into a paving company.

Six years ago Kissner became a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Currently he holds the position of public affairs officer.

Around the same time, Kissner also started volunteering with FEMA and is now a certified officer with the federal agency. “Honestly I just like helping people,” Kissner said. “I don’t get paid a dime. I even have to buy my own uniform. It’s just my way of giving back.”

Asked why he is running for office, Kissner said, “I want to be a part of the decision the town makes and keep Fort Oglethorpe a nice place to live for everybody.”

Kissner is married and has a 4-year-old daughter. If elected. Kissner said, he plans to run again in November.

“I want to tell the people that I am running for a seat for only a short time, but if they elect me I can prove to them my sincere concern for the city. I am asking for a chance to show the people I can do this job,” Kissner said. “I feel confident they would want me to serve a full four-year term after they see me in that position.”