By Charmaine Smith Anderson Independent-Mail
March 24, 2006

The list of candidates running for political office became a little longer Friday.

Anderson County Fairgrounds Manager John Owens, a political newcomer, told business owners at the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce "Toast N' Topics" that he is running for the Anderson County Council seat currently held by Fred Tolly.

Mr. Tolly has announced he is not running for re-election.

In addition to Mr. Owens' announcement, Anderson County Council member Bill Dees has said he's running for re-election. South Carolina Rep. Becky Martin, R-Anderson, is also trying to keep her seat in the State House for another two years.

Mr. Owens, who has registered as a Democrat, recently moved to Arcadia Drive in Anderson County to take over the role of the fairground's manager and said he has "fell in love" with the community.

While Mr. Owens said he doesn't have a full platform just yet, he said he would like to help the county market itself better and wants to be able to gather input from other residents - like himself - who live in District 1 of the county.

"I think I can be a real asset to the county," Mr. Owens said. "I have fresh ideas. Because my strength is in marketing, I look at the county from a different perspective. I see Anderson getting ready to explode."

So far one other candidate, former state senator Bob Waldrep, has signed up to run for Mr. Tolly's seat. Mr. Waldrep has registered as a Republican candidate for the position.

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