Candidate Profile: Wade Sprouse

STAFF REPORTS — Lifelong Cherokee County resident Wade Sprouse, 66, a Democrat, has announced his candidacy for the Dist. 1 seat on the Cherokee County Commission. Lori Owens is not seeking reelection.

Sprouse, who has worked for the Cherokee Electric Cooperative for 48 years, ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the County Commission in 2004. He has lived in the Ball Play and Woods Bend communities. He has lived in the Goshen Valley area since 1972. He also spent 12 years in the Alabama National Guard as a member of the 151st Engineering Battalion.

Sprouse has four daughters and three granddaughters. Two of his daughters teach at Spring Garden School.

"As a father and grandfather, I have deep concern for the prosperity of our county for future generations."

Sprouse said he has made numerous lifelong friends during his years of working all across Cherokee County who affected his decision to run for political office.
"The people of Cherokee County are the No. 1 reason I am running for a seat on the County Commission," he said. "As commissioner, I will listen to the people and make sound decisions that will improve the county."

Sprouse said his experience with budgets and contracts will be helpful as a member of the commission.

"I know what it is like to stretch a dollar as far as it will go," he said. "And from my experience restoring power after natural disasters, I know how to work together with others to get the job done."

Sprouse said he also believes investment in the county school system is important, as well as supporting all local volunteer fire departments and continuing the fight against drugs in the county.

I'd like to thank the people for their vote and support in 2004," said Sprouse. "Your vote and support will be greatly appreciated. Consider me when making your selection for County Commission Dist. 1 on June 3."

Editor's note: This article originally ran in the May 5, 2008 edition of The Post.