Fred Kay announces candidacy for county commissioner

Longtime local businessman and farmer Fred Kay has announced his candidacy for the Highland County Board of Commissioners.

Kay has lived and worked in Highland County, in the Mowrystown area, for many years as the owner of Kay's Construction.

In addition, he is a licensed pilot and has been recognized by Highland County for his contributions to local law enforcement.

Kay has received a Certificate of Appreciation of dedicated Volunteer Service as a pilot for the Highland County Sheriff’s Office for 20 years of flying, contributing his time and airplanes as a special deputy.

"The time is coming again to choose a candidate for county commissioner. This year voters have some top choices, and it will be up to the voters to pick a candidate that will best help and complement your existing county commissioners," Kay said.

"I feel with my knowledge and business experience that when I become part of the team, we can make things better for Highland County. Residing and doing business in Highland County for over four decades, I have been thoroughly involved with multiple facets of life and business within the county."

Kay noted that he has worked with most of the farmers in Highland County, building grain storage, drying bins and through his business.

"I have been a farmer all of my life and recognize the ups and downs, plus hard work that it takes to keep the family farm and local businesses thriving," Kay said.

"I realize that we all have gone through hard times and I want to do my part in helping as a commissioner improve the county. My driving objective will be to work together as a dedicated team to bring more industry, business and additional jobs as well as continued revenue to this county."

Kay noted a few of his success stories as CEO of Kay's Construction, including setting up factories and business facilities in Highland, Clinton, Brown and Clermont counties and work on the National Weather Station in Wilmington.

He also was a primary contractor for construction at Airborne Express for over 20 years.

"Kay’s Construction has built 11 churches, having just finished this last year with Good News Gathering (south of Hillsboro)," Kay said.

"We know how to build and manage. In summary, I have managed multiple multi-million dollar projects for the last 30 years. I am looking forward to working as a county commissioner regarding the ongoing issues of law enforcement and sewage problems at Rocky Fork Lake."

Kay is one of four candidates in the May 6 Republican primary. Also running in the primary are David Gingerich, Peter Pence and Jeff Duncan. Democratic candidate Randy Mustard is unopposed in the May 6 primary.