Written by Ben Cox – It’s time to recognize the people who make our lives easier, to shine a spotlight on the men and women of our community that work for us, even if we never know it. We present to you “Civic Spotlight.”
Today’s feature is on the County side of things, with County Commissioner for Precinct 2, Joel Kelton. Precinct 2 is “the northeast corner of Brown County. Down from the lake up 279 east then from an area north of the lake turn off, along CR 477 then makes a straight line across. We connect with Eastland County, Comanche County, and Callahan County.”
The scope of a County Commissioners job is rather large, and encompasses many things. Kelton says, though “a lot of folks think of us as a road commissioner, but I think that our #1 job is the budget.”
Documenting purchases for the precinct, being a representative to the residents of his area, and directing people to the person who has the answer they are looking for also fall under the umbrella of daily life for a Commissioner. “A lot of times I get calls and its not something I do, but I try to direct them to where they need to go.”
Kelton works with a foreman to oversee road repairs, and on occasion helps out in the field. “Last year I was out there helping them pave and running a truck.” Helping his residents when he can, Kelton is also always looking out for the people he represents. “When there’s a burn ban on, we try to do burn ban exemptions for those who really need it. If you just have a bunch of limbs in your yard, I don’t want to go out on a limb (pardon the pun) but if it’s part of your livelihood I think we can try to work with you.”
In the middle of his 12th year, Kelton is currently up for re-election. “I’ve already gone through the primary, and unless there’s a write in, I presume that we will get another term.” This will make four terms for Kelton, who says he enjoys the work.
A car guy by passion, Kelton is often seen riding in a classic car or two. “I got a job so I could have money for my hot rods when I first started out!”
However, he has been so busy with work and other projects he hasn’t been able to drag race in over 3 years. But, that doesn’t bother Kelton. “It’s a lot of work, and a lot of money. So I am ready to sit back and rest a little bit. I guess I’m in remission!” He does plan to install a go-kart track in his back yard for his grand kids, though, so maybe he’s not done with racing just yet.
Kelton also has another interest, playing guitar as well as refurbishing guitars to make them play and look the way he’d like, despite downplaying his abilities as a player. “I play with the guitar, I wish I could say I play the guitar! I just refinished a Fender Stratocaster, it was an ugly dark red and now its a beautiful turquoise.”
Joel Kelton, thank you for your service to the residents of Brown County. We appreciate the impact you have had on our community and your passion for those who inhabit it.
