Staff writer

David Strader says that while he hasn't lived in Clarkson his whole life a good part of it has been spent there.

David, his wife Robin, and their three children have been living in Clarkson for almost three years.

David has worked for the Grayson County EMS office, coming up on six years. He also has a side business with fellow commissioner Ken Lashley. They duo handle fence, electrical and excavation work.

David has also been a part of the Clarkson Volunteer Fire Department for 11 years.

When it comes to the City of Clarkson, David said there is much work to be done, but the first thing is raising revenue to tackle some of the city's issues.

David said the commission got started by raising the garbage rates.

'The previous commissions haven't kept up with the increases that have been passed on to the city," David said. "If we hadn't raised the rates this time then the garbage service would have lost money."

David said even though it may not agree with some citizens, the commission is going to look at raising taxes in the small town.

"We have to generate revenue if we want to do anything," he said. "I think you'll find that the commission we have now wants to work for the people of Clarkson."

Just like all the other commissioners David said there are drainage problems that need to be addressed inside the city, along with work at the ball park.

"We just voted to put roofs on the dug outs at the last meeting," he said. "Ken and I are volunteering our labor for the job."

He said many of the local residents offer their time and labor in order to help their community grow and look prosperous.

The commission is looking into an idea sparked by the sheriff's office to get some new cruisers.

"I think it will be beneficial to the tax payers of Clarkson to get two new police cruisers and a fire truck for only $3 per year," he said.

Another project David mentioned is a new roof at the Fire Department.

"The city is purchasing all the materials and the firemen are donating the labor," he said.

David said annexation is the way to go in Clarkson.

"First we need to get the city squared up," he said.

He said the future may hold even more annexation for the city.

"I'd like to see us annex Web Station also, then we can get it sewered along with the ball parks -- killing two birds with one stone," he said.

David said a 10-year goal for the city would be to annex beyond the parkway on Millerstown Road.

He says he is in for the long haul when it comes to the City of Clarkson. 'I'll be here until the people put me out," David said.

The thing David and all the other commissioners seem to be proud of is their ability to get along and be productive.

"We've spent many hours together already and seem to get along just fine," David said. "When we get done I think the people in Clarkson will be able to see improvement."