Precinct 4 Commissioner JoAnn Hampton. (Courtesy Photo) 

County Commissioner JoAnn Hampton announced she would seek a fourth term serving Precinct 4.

Mrs. Hampton, a Democrat, was elected to the Smith County Commissioners Court in January 2003. She served on the Tyler city council for six years and mayor pro-tem for one year. She is the senior member of the commissioners court.

Commissioner Hampton said the continuity of the court has contributed to major shifts in policy and procedure over the last decade.

“We’ve changed the county culture,” she said. “Whether you’re talking about technological advances or relationships with judges and employees. Everything has improved.”

The court has worked over her tenure to add efficiency within departments and value to the services provided to residents.

Mrs. Hampton said she would focus on providing a voice for individual constituents and represent the needs of the community.

County roads will be a primary focus over the next few years, she said.

She said the court successfully addressed prioritized goals with the voter supported jail expansion and moving employees and departments out of the former Carlton Hotel.

She said addressing roads and county infrastructure would take the same focus. Mrs. Hampton said she co-drafted the county’s road plan and understands what the county faces.

Maintaining fiscal responsibility and the county’s “pay-as-you-go” projects to meet infrastructure needs will continue to be top priorities, she said. The county recently completed new facilities for Precinct 1 Constable and Justice of the Peace and Community Supervision Department.

Mrs. Hampton said she would continue listening to and addressing constituent needs, from county roads, stray dogs and illegal dumping, to the best of her ability.

No other candidate has announced a challenge to Mrs. Hampton’s seat.

“I stand on proven experience, proven results and proven respect to the citizens of Smith County,” she said. “I am asking for you support in the November 2014 election.”