As an experienced Bulloch County commissioner, Anthony Simmons suggests meeting with Statesboro city officials on a regular basis as a way to better serve the public.

Simmons has served on the commission since 1996 and is seeking re-election to Bulloch County Board of Commissioners Seat 1B. The Democrat is unopposed in the May primary election but is challenged by Republican candidate W. Scott Brannen in the general election in November.

Having experienced working with a number of different Statesboro City Council members and mayors, Simmons believes problems affecting both city and county residents could be solved with cooperation and periodic discussions.

The relationship between the city and county can be improved "by working closer together on projects good for the county and city," he said. Having "joint meetings every quarter to inform each other on projects the other is working on" would be an asset to both governmental agencies.

Simmons said he hopes to continue serving Bulloch County residents and, if re-elected, expects to address issues of concern such as "getting more industry in Bulloch County, completing the Interstate 16/Highway 301 industrial park, solving waste issues, improving roads and bridges and continuing to keep Bulloch County safe."

As far as bringing new businesses to the area, Simmons says a good mix of large corporations and smaller, specialty companies would be good.

He said he would like to see "good, clean industries with good pay, as well as 'mom and pop' type businesses. We also need more big chain stores."

More industry will mean more strain on the county's solid waste system, however, and Simmons said the county needs to focus on solutions.

Having "more manned waste stations" open to the public at all times and "educating the public on what type waste goes where" will go a long way to solve the problems, he said. Also, "getting more involved with recycling" could benefit the county.

Simmons said he feels his 22 years on the commission speaks for itself and that he is familiar with "the county government, working with the city and surrounding municipalities to solve problems within the community." He said he has gained "great enjoyment from working with the citizens and employees of this grand county."

He has been married to Joyce M. Lawrence Simmons for 35 years and the couple has two adult children.

They are members of Thomas Grove Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon.

Simmons is a member of the Bulloch County Health Department board and Concerted Services Inc. board. He is employed by Next Step Care and has worked with Pineland Mental Health and Inspiration.

He enjoys fishing, old cars and music in his spare time.

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