The two Republican candidates for Covington County Commission Chairman have agreed to debate on Sat., Jan. 9.

Incumbent Chairman Bill Godwin is seeking re-election, and is being challenged by Greg White, who previously chaired the commission.

Godwin was chairman elected in 2012. He is running on his record of having reduced the county’s overall debt obligation; having established a merit pay plan for employees; and changing the budgeting process to more fully engage department heads. If reelected, he wants to work to ensure the county is on a “pay-as-you-go” plan, reducing the need to borrow money; strategically paving short distances of existing dirt roads to accommodate the greatest number of households per miles; and updating technology.

White served as chairman for 13-and-a-half years. Then-Gov. Fob James appointed him in 1995, and he was elected in 1996, 2000, and 2004. White said he has a strong record of supporting education and recreation, and that his interest is in looking for better ways to utilize taxpayers’ money to benefit all of the county.

The event is set for 1 p.m. at Joe’s Barista, and is being organized by Buster Boyd. The event is free, but there is limit seated. Tickets are available at Joe’s Barista.

Godwin and White will be on the ballot on Tues., March 1, 2016.