A Statesboro entrepreneur is challenging the incumbent for Bulloch County Commission seat 1A, claiming his leadership and ability to work hard, along with a focus on school bus and road safety, makes him the best candidate.

Hayward Fields is running against incumbent Ray Mosley. Fields is sometimes known by the nickname "Hollywood," as he owns Hollywood's Barber Shop in Statesboro, as well as HAF Enterprises Construction. He is also the former owner of Platinum Lounge in Statesboro.

Fields said that he has lived in Bulloch County for 22 years and is a native of Freeman, Virginia, where he graduated from Brunswick High School. He joined the United States Army in 1987 and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm. Married to Jemena Fields, the couple has four children.

Fields told the Statesboro Herald that, if elected, he hopes to focus on road conditions and safety, as well as putting efforts into bringing more industry into the area.

"As I have watched the community of Bulloch County grow, I am excited to have the opportunity to run for the commission and be a part of this election," he said. "My main priority is to improve road conditions so that children are safe being transported to school. I plan to work with the county in paving the dirt roads that present hazards."

He also addressed school bus safety, referring to recent crashes involving buses.

"Considering the incidents we've had recently, another area of concern for me is focusing on safety awareness of school bus transportation, as this warrants our community's attention," he said.

Bringing in more industries that pay well is also an important point to consider, he said.

"I also plan to help continue to grow this community as well as bring more industries into this area," he said. "I promise to work together with commissioners, the city of Statesboro and the (Statesboro-Bulloch) Chamber of Commerce in seeking industries that pay higher wages."

He said he is not afraid of challenges.

"Leadership qualities and dedication to hard work speaks volumes about my character," he said.

Fields has experience with the Statesboro-Bulloch County Parks and Recreation Department as a volunteer basketball coach, the Caring and Sharing Home for Boys as a mentor, and local nursing homes as a volunteer with the elderly.

"I am reliable, accessible and dependable," he said.

Voting for the Bulloch County Commission seats, as well as other local races, will be during the general primary election held May 24.

Herald reporter Holli Deal Saxon may be reached at (912) 489-9414.