Serve Bay St. Louis 2017
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Lonnie Falgout, I (I)

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Four years ago the wonderful citizens and property owners of Ward 6 elected me as their BSL Councilman. As difficult as things may be viewed by some at times, the task of representing your Ward and then being objective to all of BSL citizens is a very delicate balancing act.

​I've always cherished in volunteering in whatever I could to promote a better BSL for over 25 years, in my capacity as Councilman it has given me the opportunity to enhance BSL, legislate for a better BSL and improve the quality of life for all in BSL. I look forward to working with the individuals our people select both in the Administration and Councilman sides of government for the next four years.

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Lonnie Falgout's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Joey Boudin, D (I)

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Thank you volunteers for donating your time and energy for Serve Bay St. Louis. I also would like to thank the citizens of Ward 5 for allowing me to serve the past nine years. It is an honor and duty I take very seriously.

Bay St. Louis is thriving, developments are evident throughout the city, services are improving constantly, and  tax dollars are always under strict scrutiny from a unified council. The direction we are headed in is envied by several cities. We do not need to “move in a new direction”.

If reelected, I will continue to work diligently with other council persons, continue to be attentive at meetings, return calls, be conservative with your tax dollars, and keep Ward 5’s interest a top priority.

I feel my business and council experience has prepared me the most to keep Bay St. Louis moving in the “right direction”. If anyone in Ward 5 needs registration forms or a ride to the polls, do not hesitate to call.

  • Married to Carol for 29 years
  • Two children, Joe and Krista
  • Graduated from St. Stanislaus and PRCC
  • Owner of Boudin’s Waste for 25 years
  • Involved in numerous local organizations
 
Thank you,
Joey Boudin

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Joey Boudin's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Tad Black, D

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​My name is Tad Black.  I am a graduate from Bay High and received an Associates Degree of Applied Science from Pearl River Community College.  I worked for 24 years at Stennis Space Center, 21 of those years at the Mississippi Army Ammunition Plant.  As Telecommunications Manager, I was responsible for a 4.3 million dollar a year budget.  When elected to the City Council in 1993 and re-elected in 1997, I served on numerous boards such as:
  • Solid Waste Authority for Hancock County
  • Partners for Stennis
  • Steering committee to develop the Chambers Leadership Hancock County
  • Graduated from the first Leadership Hancock County
  • Chambers Vision 2000 Project
 
I co-authored and worked with the Mayor and City Council to adopt several ordinances and the first comprehensive plan that would protect the quality of life that makes Bay St. Louis a Place Apart.
 
I will play an active role in our community for a better place to raise our children, run our businesses, and secure a future, filled with unlimited promise.  I am committed to making your voice heard.  I ask for the opportunity to serve you as Councilman, Fourth Ward.  Together, we can make a meaningful difference for our great city. 

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Tad Black's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Carol A. Strohmetz, D

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I would be honored to serve on the BSL City Council for Ward 2.  I believe in open and honest communication and I will represent the citizens of Ward 2 in a civil and professional manner.  I have 20 years experience in hospital management, policy writing, contract negotiations, and budgets. 

​I would like us to develop a five year plan for the future smart growth of our city without losing our small town charm and cultural heritage. I have an Associate Degree in Business & Management, a Bachelors Degree in American Studies, and a Masters Degree in American History.

Click on the icon below to open a PDF of
Carol A. Strohmetz's
​​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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George Williams, R

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Why George Williams is the right person to represent Ward 1 on Bay St. Louis’ City Council.

In summary, with more than 25 years of experience in executive level management of State tourism agencies and direct success in state and national programs, I believe I possess the experience, leadership and vision to contribute to the management, growth and progress necessary to make Bay St. Louis more successful in the future.

My resume of Education and Experience is the best statement of why I am better qualified to serve Bay St. Louis as the Council member from Ward 1.
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  • Williams Consulting, specializing in government relations, organizational management and economic development
  • Isle of Capri Casino Corporation, Government Relations, Policy, Compliance and Business Development
  • Director of Tourism, State of Maryland, Department of Economic Development
  • Executive Vice President, Catfish Farmers of America
  • President, Maris, West and Baker Advertising / Public Relations Agency
  • Vice President of Marketing, Louisiana World Exposition
  • Director of Tourism, State of Mississippi, Department of Economic Development
  • State Community Development Specialist for Tourism and Recreation, Mississippi State University
  • Master’s Degree from Memphis State University in Public Administration of Recreation and Parks
  • Honorably served eight years in the United States Air Force

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George Williams's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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Susan M. "Susie" Veglia, I

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As a CPA of 24 years with 17 years of governmental experience, I can do this job and I want to help.  My background includes financial and human resources management, and economic and community development. I know the authority and limitations of a governing body and our duty to proceed ethically and transparently. That way the many are deciding instead of the few alone.

I was raised with my seven siblings in Long Beach and know what it means means to share, to be close and supportive.  In family as in community, we need each other!  With a desire to give back, it has been my pleasure to share my talents on five local nonprofit boards.

After college and traveling abroad, Hancock County became my home in 1984.  My work with Port and Harbor Commission from 1999 – 2016 solidified my strong commitment to work in and for the community.  As with many others, it was scary to build in the Bay after Katrina, but I had a vision and stayed the course. 
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I love this strong, diverse city and claim all of it with pride.  Please vote for me on June 6th for council at large.

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Susan M. "Susie" Veglia's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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Michael "Mike" Weems, D

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Dear People of Bay St. Louis,

My name is Mike Weems and I want to be your next Councilman at Large.  I LOVE this city – always have and always will!  I am passionate about making a positive difference in your life.  We are going to bring a new style of leadership and vision to our city and make it an even better place for EVERYONE. 

I was raised in a family with strong faith and values.  I started kindergarten at Our Lady of the Gulf (now Holy Trinity), graduated from Bay High, and went on to obtain a Bachelor’s in Environmental Biology, a Master’s in Biology & Secondary Education, and a Specialist Degree in Leadership and Administration from USM.  I have been a teacher, coach, and administrator for the past 20 years.  I am currently employed by the Harrison County School District.

I have the education and experience, along with the desire, drive, and determination to move our city forward in the right direction.  I can and will make a difference in your life!

I am asking for your family’s prayers and support. 

Follow us or send a message on Facebook/coachmikeweems.

Thank you,
​
Mike Weems

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Michael "Mike" Weems
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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TJ Collier, D

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My name is TJ Collier and I am seeking to become your next Councilman at Large. I have lived in Bay Saint Louis for all of my life and I absolutely love the people here. I have three sons and one daughter that I raised in this community and am retired from the US Postal service after 30 years on the job. I also served our country in the US Navy.
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My educational background includes an Associates of Arts degree from Pearl River Community College and a Bachelors of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Business Administration with a minor in accounting.

I feel as though I am the best candidate for the job because I will be able to give full time attention to serving the people. My 30+ years of working for the public gives me the necessary experience to be a man of the people and my military experience taught me to work as a team in a similar fashion as our city council has to in order to be effective.

I would greatly appreciate your consideration for a vote for me for Councilman at large. Thank you.

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TJ Collier's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Les M. Fillingame, Sr. - D (I)

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I am Les Fillingame, the current Mayor of our great city, Bay St Louis. I have been your Mayor for the last eight years and am extremely proud of where we have taken this City together. The opportunity to rebuild after Katrina has been the most rewarding experience of my professional life. We have wisely invested hundreds of millions of federal dollars in new infrastructure, public safety facilities, community halls, streetscapes and our new waterfront that includes, of course, the harbor. We have added amenities that have placed us at the forefront of communities that offer a genuine quality of life.

We are the fastest growing city in Mississippi since the 2010 Census and the demand for property is reflected in sharp increases in property values. Our attention to efficiency in operations has kept everything that is new, sustainable; and, has allowed us the opportunity to invest local capital in recent paving and drainage projects in our newer areas. I look forward to continuing in your service. 

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Les Fillingame, Sr.'s
​responses to the Serve BSL questions. 
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Kyle Lewis, R

As a proud, lifelong citizen of Bay Saint Louis, I am determined to apply the utmost level of dedication and perspective to help solve the current challenges facing our city.  My experience as a nursing home administrator and as a Tulane professor provide me with many skills necessary to perform the duties to serve as your councilman.  We need leaders with professional experience in making critical decisions. 

I have experience as an administrator in both the public and private sector.  I know firsthand the pace in which government works and we need to bring a sense of urgency in getting things done.  It is of vital importance for the executive and legislative bodies to work together with transparency and civility in order to best represent the taxpayers and be the best stewards of taxpayer’s dollars.
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I am a graduate of Saint Stanislaus College and The University of Mississippi.  I have participated in several continuing educations programs including The John C. Stennis State Executive Development Institute and the Mississippi Certified Public Manager Program.  Along with my wife, Katherine, and my children Olivia, Finley and Henry we are active in youth sports and parishioners of Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church.
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Kyle Lewis's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Gisele Marie Bradley, D

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Info on myself: I retired from the Naval Oceanographic Office at Stennis Space Center as a Security Specialist in January 2016. I have one daughter, Tenille Farmer. I belong to Saint Rose de Lima Church. I am a lifelong resident and Active Member of the Bay Saint Louis Community.

My decision to run for Councilwoman Ward 4 stems from my desire to serve my community.  My principles are:
  • I will work to increase business development in the city.
  • I want to ensure there is transparency communication and information sharing between the Council and the Mayors Office.
  • I will maintain and follow the laws pertaining to the budget and finances.
  • I will work as a Team Member for a more productive Bay Saint Louis.

Please look me up on Facebook.

Thank You

Gisele "Tinnie" Bradley

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Gisele Marie Bradley's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.  
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Kevin Paul Avery, D

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My name is Kevin Avery. I am running for the Bay St. Louis Council Ward Three seat in the upcoming election. I am employed at Hancock Medical Center and owner of Avery’s Catering and Bartender Services. I am a lifelong resident of Ward Three; a member of St. Rose deLima Catholic Church and a proud father and family man.

I am vested in this community and proud to call Bay St. Louis my home town. Growing up here, I’ve always loved the people, culture and closeness you feel with your neighbors. You never meet a stranger here. We greet each other with a big hello and a hug, whether we’re friends or mere acquaintances. This is the place I chose to raise my children. I want the best for the neighborhood I grew up in and the best for the City of Bay St. Louis.

I want to be a voice for the Third Ward.  Many improvements are needed to make the area environmentally safe for everyone. My goal is to work on improvements to our infrastructure and beautification of our neighborhoods. I want to make Ward 3 a part of ‘A Place Apart.”

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Kevin Paul Avery's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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Wendy McDonald, D (I)

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I am a Bay St. Louis City Councilwoman representing Ward 2, which includes most of Old Town and the Historic District of Bay St. Louis.  I have served Ward 2 faithfully until last May when I was hit by a car on a church sidewalk and began a long recovery from traumatic injuries. In mid-March my doctor cleared me to resume my city council duties and attend city meetings.

I am running for this position because I care deeply about this town and want to protect the people and things that make Bay St. Louis so special.  I am a uniquely qualified and experienced leader. I am a graduate of Bay High School and I hold two degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas in Austin.  

Over the last 7 years I have participated in the Mississippi Municipal League training for elected municipal officials and I hold all three certifications. The certifications include Basic, Advanced, and Professional Level Certified Municipal Official (CMO). I took over 100 hours of training in areas such as Municipal Law, Finance and Land Use, as well as Community and Economic Development. 

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Wendy McDonald's
​​responses to the Serve BSL questions.
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Rachael Ramsey - D

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My campaign is different from other candidates’, past or present.  This as a job I’m applying for, work in the truest sense. I want to show you my resume, talk to you about where I’ve been, and answer your questions about where our town is going. You won’t see yard signs or newspaper ads, get free meals, the usual. I’ve never gotten jobs that way, have you? I stand on my qualifications, my education, my experience, my full-time availability.

I’m a retired accountant, with a baccalaureate with a major in accounting and a minor in economics, from Penn State.  I’ll post my resume on my Facebook page, Mayor Rachael. Please take a look.

 I encourage you to think about the qualities you look for when you hire someone to work on your house, teach yourself or your children, file your taxes, and help you invest your hard-earned money. Do you hire your friend with the great personality? Or do you look for the person who has the best credentials you can find and afford?

I’ve come out of retirement a couple of times. I’m ready to do it again. Please hire me to help you and our beautiful town.

​Rachael  


Click on the icon below to open a PDF of
Rachael Ramsey's
​responses to the Serve BSL questions. 

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Democratic Primary
Ward Four
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Ward 4 Sample Primary Ballot - D
Republican Primary
Ward Four
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Ward 4 Sample Primary Ballot - R
Democratic Primary
Ward Five
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Ward 5 Sample Primary Ballot - D
Democratic Primary
Ward Six
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Ward 6 Sample Primary Ballot - D

Sample Ballot for May 2nd Primaries

Important Note:

Greg Farve, D - Withdrew from Council At Large seat on March 20th, but since ballots can't be changed (by law) once they're printed, his name will still appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary, May 2nd.  
Democratic Primary
Ward One
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Ward 1 Sample Primary Ballot - D
Democratic Primary
Ward Two
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Ward 2 Sample Primary Ballot - D
Democratic Primary
Ward Three
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Ward 3 Sample Primary Ballot - D
If more than one candidate from the same party (Democratic, Republican) is running for a certain office, a Primary Election is held (ours is May 2nd).  The winner will go on to the general election (on June 6th) and compete against candidates from other parties. 

Why Primary Elections are important:
If there are no candidates from other parties running against the primary winners in the general election, the primary actually decides the outcome of the whole shebang.  That's the case in the Ward Three Primary election this year.  One of the two Democrats running will emerge from the primary the winner of the Ward Three city council seat. 

On primary day, it doesn't matter what party you identify with the rest of the year:  you can vote in the Democratic Primary or the Republican Primary.  But not both.  You'll have to pick. 

In the general election (June 6th), you'll be able to mix and match political parties if you choose, voting for the candidates you think will do the best job, regardless of their affiliation.

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