Meet the Candidates
Treutlen County Commissioner District 2 Phil Jennings (Incumbent) 1. I'm a lifelong resident of Treutlen County and graduate of Treutlen High School. I attended East Georgia College and The University of Georgia, where I obtained a BSA in Agribusiness. My wife and I have been married for 14 years and have twin 8-year-old daughters. I have spent my career in international agriculture and agriculture start-ups, and currently own and operate Broomsedge Rod and Gun in Soperton and Lorne Valley Ranch, a blueberry operation in Prince Edward Island, Canada. I serve as Chairman of the Treutlen County Board of Commissioners and on various state and local boards and committees.
2. I am seeking reelection because I truly love Treutlen County and believe that I can help our county thrive. I have been involved in a variety of start-ups, internationally and domestically, that I believe give me a unique perspective to tackle the challenges that a small, rural county such as Treutlen often has to endure. Navigating start-ups, where resources are tight, margins are thin, and failure is always a possibility, taught me how to make sound decisions under pressure, and that experience translates directly to managing a county with limited resources. That experience, alongside my background in international agriculture, agribusiness, and my Certified County Commissioner certification from UGA, positions me well to continue serving this county effectively. Being fiscally responsible is a must, because there isn't much room for error, so every decision, no matter how large or small, matters. At the end of the day, my family and I are affected by the decisions made by this board, just as it is for everyone who lives and/or works in Treutlen County.
3. One change I am committed to is pushing back against complacency in how county government operates. Throughout my first term, I frequently asked why something was done a certain way only to hear, 'that's just the way we've always done it.' There is absolutely a place for tradition, but I refuse to let it be used as a lazy excuse to avoid doing things better. You have to be willing to change and adapt, that's non-negotiable in good governance. One area where that is especially clear is technology. Through grant opportunities and strategic upgrades, we can bring county government into the 21st century in areas where we are frankly overdue. While some work has been done to move records to digital, we still have a long way to go. Adopting new technology will allow constituents who can't or simply have no desire to visit a county office to remit payments, sign up for services, request information, and interact with their county government on their own terms. I want our people to have that choice.
4. My first priority is adding an additional ambulance to our EMS service, while also planning for additional units as call volume continues to climb. Second is economic development. The last thing any of us want is a property tax increase, and the way you prevent that is through smart economic development, attracting the kind of growth that brings good paying jobs and expands the tax base without putting added strain on the resources we already have. I will continue pursuing those opportunities aggressively. Third is improving county assets and infrastructure. We have added newer equipment over the last few years, but keeping pace with the demands of a county our size on a budget like ours is a constant challenge. I intend to address this goal through grant funding and careful prioritization. Finally, I want to expand recreational opportunities for all of our residents, not just in youth sports, but in ways that every generation can enjoy, including conservation and wildlife habitat improvements that protect the outdoor character that makes Treutlen County such a special place to call home.
Ronnie Strickland
At the time of press, Ronnie Strickland had not submitted a candidate questionnaire.
District 5 Thalia Gillis (Incumbent) 1. I am Thalia Gillis, I am married to Leo Gillis, Jr. We have three children and one grandchild.
I am a graduate of Treutlen High School; I have an Advance Associate Degree from Brewton-Parker College and a Bachelor of Arts, with a Major in Behavioral Sciences and Minor in Social Sciences from Tift College/Mercer University.
I am retired with 34 years of service from Georgia State Government. Where I served as a Case Manager at DFCS and a State Probation Officer in the Dublin Judicial Circuit.
I am a member of First Baptist Church.
2. I currently serve as District 5 commissioner and I am running for reelection to continue working towards keeping county expenses, taxes, and solid waste fees low and reasonably affordable. Since commissioners serve as stewards over county funds, I will continue to encourage total transparency regarding county spending.
What qualifies me are my many years of service and the hours of classes/ trainings I have taken since I began serving as a commissioner in 2019. I successfully advocated for increased sick leave for county employees and a county Juneteenth holiday. I decreased food insecurity by initiating the mobile food pantry until changes caused it to be discontinued. I increased safety by assisting the Fire Dept and the Red Cross in installing smoke detectors in homes. I also advocated for restoration of the Old Rec Fields.
I set a goal to learn as much as possible about county government. I completed the required core certification in less than six months. I am currently the only serving commissioner that holds specialty certification in all eight tracks (Citizen Engagement, County Operations and Management, Economic & Community Development, Intergovernmental Relations, Leadership Development, Public Safety, Quality of Life/ Social Issues and Revenue & Finance) of county government.
3. The county has a good set of policies and guidelines in place. What needs to be changed is that elected officials need to stop focusing on power, control and personal gain and focus on what will most benefit the citizens of Treutlen County. The officials need to follow county policy regardless of who it is or what the circumstances are. I will continue to call for transparency in following county policy and procedure, especially in hiring of county employees and spending.
4. I would like to see a second ambulance in the county. Time and time again we receive contacts of concern when 911 has been called and an ambulance is needed, but there isn’t one available. The commission should ask the county manager to research for possible grants. It should not matter which party (democrats or republicans) you are getting aide from, recognize the need and follow through with whomever offers the assistance.
I would also like for the mobile food pantry to be reinstated or open a county food bank. During the inaugural years of the mobile food pantry, we would serve approximately 230 families every quarter. I would like to bring back and increase the outreach and production this program had in feeding the citizens of Treutlen.
Finally, I would like to incorporate and enforce policy to engage all members of the community in county boards (Development Authority, The Election Board, Recreation, etc.) I propose these boards mandate representation from every district in Treutlen County.
Freddie Lee Mills Jr.
1. Freddie Mills is a lifelong resident of Treutlen County, Georgia, and a dedicated community servant. He is the proud father of three children— who inspire his commitment to service.
A veteran of the United States Army, Mr. Mills continues to serve through his roles in the community. He is a deacon and Minister of Music at Better Together Community Christian Church, Vice President of the Treutlen County Booster Club, and a coach for middle and high school girls’ basketball.
Was a student of Allen University, he is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education at Brewton-Parker College. Professionally, he serves as a School Resource Officer with the Dodge County School System, where he is committed to the safety and mentorship of students.
2. I have decided to run for County Commissioner because I believe in a brighter future for our community. I am committed to fostering strong, transparent communication with our citizens and maintaining effective collaboration with fellow board members. I support meaningful progress while remaining a steadfast advocate for stability.
As a veteran of the United States Army, I will bring the same level of dedication, discipline, and service to this role as I did in uniform. My leadership experience as a deacon, a father, a sergeant, and a man of faith has shaped my commitment to leading with integrity, accountability, and purpose. I am dedicated to serving this county with excellence and always putting my best foot forward for the people I represent.
3. If elected, I am committed to strengthening communication between the community and the Board of Commissioners. I will strive to be visible, accessible, and to lead by example in the values I stand for. My goal is to bridge any gaps that may exist, fostering unity so that we can work together rather than apart. I aim to shift the outlook from the past by embracing positive change while empowering new ideas that benefit our community, our children, and future generations.
4. My goals in this election are centered on bringing new life and opportunity back to the City and community of Treutlen County.
First, I will prioritize revitalizing our recreational facilities so that our children have safe, welcoming places to play, grow, and simply be kids.
Second, I will work to attract and support job opportunities within our county. No one should have to commute 45 minutes to an hour for employment. By encouraging business development, we can create jobs right here in our hometown and strengthen our local economy.
Lastly, I am committed to improving the condition of our roads to meet proper safety standards. Ensuring safe travel for our residents, including drivers, school buses, and truck operators, is essential to protecting our community.
Samantha Richards
At the time of press, Samantha Richards had not submitted a candidate questionnaire. Board of Education District 5 Demetria Harden-Noble (Incumbent) 1. I, Demetria Harden-Noble, am a proud high school 1992 Alumni of Treutlen County High School. I have one daughter, Madison Noble who attends Kennesaw State University. In addition, I am a licensed Insurance Agent of 26 years with Delta Life Insurance Company. I currently serve as the Vice-Chair for the Treutlen County Board of Education. I am also a member of the Unique Community Women's Club here in Soperton, Ga.
2. I am seeking reelection because I have a tremendous passion for all of the children in Treutlen County, and I enjoy being an influential part of their success. We've made wonderful progress with our students and community since my tenure as a board member. Graduation rates have increased, a new K-12 school was built, and we've recently completed a new softball and baseball athletic complex. We are currently preparing for our new football field to be completed in 2027 with the gymnasium soon to follow. I am qualified to hold this office because with every decision I make, I make sure the children are my first priority. Also, I have an excellent rapport with the citizens in Treutlen County, and not just District 5. Having a genuine concern for ALL the children in our school system is the greatest qualification I possess.
3. When re-elected, I intend to continue to work diligently with our superintendent, board members, teachers, and all the constituents of Treutlen County. I am going to remain showing up to all events and always support all the kids within our school system, as well as the community. I am determined to continue being available when called upon. There is no 'I' in team so I will not be able to make changes alone, but together as a board, we will make certain to make the best decisions for the Treutlen County School System.
4. As a Board of Education member, my primary goal is to improve student achievement by ensuring all students receive the support they need to succeed, especially in reading and math. Another key priority is strengthening teacher support and retention, and I will continue working to ensure teachers feel valued and supported in their roles. I will also remain focused on school safety by working with the board to provide necessary resources, as I am currently doing. Additionally, I believe consistent communication with families is essential, and I will continue to create opportunities for community input in decision-making. Responsible budgeting is another important goal. I will work closely with the board to ensure resources are allocated where they are needed most, particularly in classrooms. I will also continue to advocate for all students, including those in special education and other specialized programs, by ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive.
Tangaley Rena Strickland 1. I earned a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland and an M.S.W. in Social Work Administration from Savannah State University. I have nearly 30 years of experience supporting children and families and have been a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia since 2020.I also served 16 years as DFCS Director for Treutlen and surrounding counties. I work at Dodge County Hospital and volunteer at Mercy Clinic in Lyons. I serve on the CASA DFCS, Family Connection (Vice Chair), and Mercy Clinic boards. I am married to Orlander Strickland, Sr., with three sons and six grandchildren.
2. I am running for the Board of Education because it is a natural continuation of my lifelong commitment to serving children and families here in Treutlen County. For nearly 30 years, I have worked to support, protect, and empower youth through my roles in public health, social services, and community leadership. That same passion continues to guide me today.
Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the critical role education plays in shaping a child’s future. I want to help ensure our school system provides a positive, supportive environment where students can thrive, teachers feel valued, and staff are equipped to succeed. I also believe strong schools require strong partnerships, and I am committed to strengthening communication and collaboration between parents, educators, and the community.
My professional experience, leadership roles, and deep roots in this community have prepared me to make thoughtful, informed decisions. I am committed to helping create opportunities for all students to succeed while strengthening the connection between our schools and the families they serve.
3. If elected, I would encourage a strong focus on strengthening collaboration between our schools, families, and the community as a whole. As one member of the Board, I understand that meaningful progress requires working together and gaining the support of fellow board continued from page
members. Student success is a shared responsibility, and stronger partnerships will help us better support every child.
Another priority is improving student achievement across all levels by strengthening academic support, including more targeted and consistent remediation strategies. It is important that students who need additional help receive it early and effectively so they can stay on track.
I would also focus on increasing engagement and communication with parents. Supporting parent forums and workshops can create opportunities for families, teachers, and staff to work together in supporting student learning.
In addition, I would advocate for continued attention to the overall wellbeing of students, teachers, and staff. I believe in the importance of listening and would support gathering regular, confidential feedback from parents, educators, and staff to better understand what is working well and where improvements are needed.
4. If elected, I will encourage a focus on key goals that support student success and strengthen our school system, recognizing that progress requires collaboration and buy-in from the full Board.
One of my top priorities will be improving student achievement across all levels. This includes supporting targeted remediation efforts and encouraging the use of additional resources, such as summer remediation programs, to help students who need extra academic support stay on track.
Another important goal is increasing parent and community engagement. I believe strong partnerships are essential, and I will support opportunities such as parent forums, workshops, and improved communication to ensure families feel informed, involved, and empowered.
I will also advocate for supporting and retaining our teachers and staff. This means improving communication with educators to better understand their needs and identify what would make their jobs more effective, while prioritizing resources that directly support them in the classroom.
Finally, I will encourage a continued focus on transparency and accountability by supporting open communication and gathering regular feedback from parents, staff, and the community to guide thoughtful decision-making and continuous improvement.
Thalia Gillis
Freddie Mills
DemetriaHarden-Noble
Tangaley Strickland
