Challengers: Boswell's personality
an issue in District 5 election

By By Steve Gillespie / staff writer
Oct. 8, 2003
Ray Boswell looked straight into the television cameras aimed at him during this week's Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors meeting and spoke directly to his constituents.
Boswell, the District 5 supervisor, said people might think he's controversial. But, he said, he doesn't believe people voted for him "to say yes' every time one of these dudes up here makes a motion."
Boswell has been criticized in newspaper columns, letters to the editor, political forums and radio talk shows. He also has been praised in those forums as well.
His critics have called him confrontational and a bully. His defenders say he is helpful and honest. And all of that has surfaced in this year's race for the District 5 seat on the board of supervisors.
Madere's concerns
Independent candidate Susan Madere said based on conversations with voters, District 5 representation has been missing some things.
She cited what she sees as Boswell's tendency to argue with other supervisors and department heads during regular board meetings.
The other independent candidate for District 5 Supervisor, W. David Hackney, said he is running for the post because he will soon be out of work and he would like to stay in Lauderdale County.
Hackney's job
A county resident since 1990, Hackney is a mechanic at Naval Air Station Meridian. He works on T-2 aircraft, which are being phased out.
Hackney said Boswell appears childish on televised board meetings. But Hackney said he also is aware of the incumbent's large contingency of supporters throughout the district.
Hoffer's plans
Jimmy E. Hoffer is the Republican nominee who is challenging Boswell. Hoffer agrees that someone with a different approach would be good for District 5.
Hoffer has worked with the Meridian Fire Department for more than 27 years, working directly with the public through public relations, fire safety and other roles.
He said the greatest concern for the area is gaining new jobs and keeping the ones that already exist.
Boswell, though, makes no apologies for his performance and said he simply is standing up for what he believes.
Boswell's take
Boswell served as a supervisor from 1988-1996 and regained his seat in January 2000. He said bringing more jobs and industry to the area will be a major focus for the next four years.
Boswell also has said, as in Monday's supervisor meeting, that he will continue to ask questions in meetings no matter how uncomfortable it may be for those on the receiving end.