Hawkins Takes Republican Spot For County Commission
By Tony Rutherford
HNN Contributing Writer

HUNTINGTON --- Republican Cabell County Commission candidate Greg Hawkins spent the early part of election night Tuesday collecting his signs.

"When I came back," he said, "I was up 3,000 to 1,500 and that was fantastic!"

The former Huntington City Council member bested Tom Bell by almost 2,000 votes. He faces Democrat W. Scott Bias, who unofficially defeated Russell Houck by 107 votes.

Asked about his views on issues such as the re-use of the old jail or the purchase of a building across from the courthouse, Hawkins said, "I have some interesting ideas, but I'm just trying to win an election first. I think I will be able to work with Mr. (Bob) Bailey and Ms. (Nancy) Cartmill."

Hawkins describes himself as an old fashioned "statesman" who wants to serve his community.

"I have a job. I work for Joslins," he said.

"Jefferson and Washington had jobs and they wanted to serve the people too."

The former Huntington High School basketball standout acknowledges that winning will not be easy.

"Anytime you're a Republican in West Virginia, you're taking on the system," he said. "I think there are 8,000 Democratic voters and 5,000 Republican voters. You've gotta get some good friends among the Democrats."