Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
Ethylen Powell has spent more than a decade helping guide the growth of Teachey, a town she’s called home for over 50 years. First appointed to the board of commissioners in 2009, Powell’s journey into public service began with a phone call—and a desire to stay involved in the community she loves. Since then, she’s become a steady voice in local government, championing improvements from park facilities to public services, and earning the role of mayor pro tem multiple times by unanimous vote.
Can you tell us about your journey as a commissioner with the town of Teachey? How long have you been commissioner and what motivated you to enter politics?
I have served on the board since 2009. I was invited by a good standing citizen of the Town of Teachey. Mrs. Mirian Tucker called me and asked if I would serve on the board due to a fellow board member moving out of our growing town. I didn’t know what to expect but soon learned a lot and became very interested, especially since I’ve always enjoyed being a part of community events. I always served in different capacities when my children were in school. I served as PTA President, and in other capacities in the system when I could. I discovered that being a part of decision making and growth for our small town was in my blood, so I have continued to be part of the decision making for our town. The commissioners were so impressed that they have nominated me for mayor Pro-Tem & voted yes by unanimous vote, several times.
Looking back on your time in public office, what accomplishment are you most proud of — and how has it tangibly benefited the community?
I am most proud of our park, which includes playground equipment for the children and a walking trail for everyone to enjoy. We have bathrooms in our park and picnic tables. We have added to our town hall in which we hope in the future we can hire a law enforcement officer. We have and are seeing new homes being built in our town. This shows the attraction of our growing town. I have seen a new fire department and donations from our citizens helping to keep it going. We also have added a water clerk and assistant maintenance person. I have also seen sewer and trash pickup added to our down. When my husband and I moved here over 50 years ago, we had to either wash clothes or take a shower. This would sometimes fill up the septic tank, and we had to call for help and that cost was around $150. We also had to pay the county $90 a year and haul our trash to a small landfill past the Duff Creek community. We started celebrating Easter in the park and hosting our annual Christmas tree lighting. Last year we purchased a very beautiful tree that will shine beautifully for years to come.
How will you ensure all voices, including those in outlying or underserved areas, are heard and represented in town decisions?
All citizens are always invited to every town meeting and there is an open-door policy for our mayor.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing challenge Teachey faces right now?
The most pressing thing right now is the tax base, and we are working on that.
What are your top three priorities, and how do they align with residents’ concerns?
To ensure the smooth transition of the new growth in town, listen to the concerns of citizens, and continue to serve honestly.
What is your take on livestreaming and recording all public meetings? How important is it to you that budget documents are easily accessible for residents?
Our administration does a very good job of recording minutes, and a copy of the budget is available for all citizens.
How have you addressed the community’s concerns about infrastructure and public services during your term?
Our monthly meetings are open to the public, and residents can have a copy of the minutes. It is and always has been an open-door policy whether in person or by phone if any citizens need help.
What steps have you taken to increase transparency and resident engagement in decision-making?
All citizens are always invited to the public meetings, and all concerns of our citizens are addressed if brought to the mayor or board.
What is the most challenging part of your job that you wish residents would understand?
No one gets what they want all the time. Everyone must understand that running a town is similar to running your home or a business; you must always budget for emergencies and set priorities in order.
If given $1 million for Teachey, where would you allocate the funds and why?
You must always have a reserve to keep the town running. Repairs for roads, sewer stations, and donations to the fire department are very important parts of every town.
