02/23/2026
Hello, my name is Eli Miller, and I’m running for a seat on the Decatur County Commission
for the 5th District.
I know I’m not a well-known name in politics, but some of you know me from Herron Creek
Farm, where I manage our family’s operation as the 7th generation on our Tennessee Century Farm. Decatur County has shaped my family for more than 180 years, and even though I’m young, I care about seeing our county do well—now and for the generations coming after us.
I’m active in our community through the Decatur County Historical Society and my Church. I am also a graduate of TCAT with certifications in both the Machinist program and the Heavy Equipment Mechanic program. I grew up valuing hard work, continuous learning, and contributing to my local community.
I believe two of the most important parts of this position are listening and communicating. I want to consider the input of the people I represent and make sure their voices are part of every decision. Along with listening, I believe it’s important to keep the community updated
on what’s going on in county government. Commissioners should be willing to explain and defend the decisions they make and address concerns directly with their constituents. I have also been attending the commissioners’ meetings recently to help educate myself on the current issues affecting the county. I believe commissioners should be active, engaged, and willing to work closely with the other commissioners, the county mayor, as well as other offices so we can accomplish our major tasks and initiatives in a timely and effective manner.
• Taxes: Keeping our taxes low and fair to our property owners and residents is important.
I aim to keep all taxes as low as possible and manage our tax funds carefully.
• Parks & Recreation: We currently have a planning grant available for planning public
spaces. We need places and activities that serve the entire community.
• Beech Bend: We have a tremendous opportunity at Beech Bend to create a facility that benefits families, tourism, and local quality of life. I want to see us make the most of it.
• Hospital: The hospital has faced numerous challenges, requiring the County to make
complex choices that have not achieved the intended outcomes. I am committed to
contributing positively towards resolving these issues and hope to support efforts toward
reopening the facility, if possible, in the future.
• Employment Opportunities: We need more employment opportunities in Decatur
County, but not just any employment opportunities—good, high-quality ones that provide a living wage and a future for our young people. However, as we pursue progress and
economic growth, it’s essential that we strike a healthy balance with preserving our farmland and heritage. Our roots in agriculture and our rural way of life are important parts of what make Decatur County special. We must be thoughtful about development, making
decisions that protect our land and honor our history, even as we create new opportunities.
I am committed to ensuring that progress and preservation go hand in hand.
I’m running because I believe Decatur County deserves commissioners who work hard,
communicate openly, and make the County a priority. I’m ready to do exactly that.
I’d be honored to have your support in the May 5th Republican Primary and the August 6th
County General Election.
Thank you,
Eli Miller
