Chattanooga Election Night Results: Black Retains Seat, 4 Republican Newcomers Join Hamilton County School Board

Chattanooga—Election night in Chattanooga and Hamilton County brought intriguing shifts to the local school board. Democrat incumbent, Jill Black, successfully held her seat, while Republicans Steve Slater, Ben Daugherty, Jodi Schaffer, and Felice Hadden clinched victories in their respective races. The final unofficial vote totals were released by the Hamilton County Election Commission, and here’s what you need to know.

Black’s Victory in District 11

Jill Black, who represents District 11, including Tiftonia, Lookout Mountain, and Missionary Ridge areas, secured her position with 1,829 votes, overcoming her GOP challenger Sherrie Ford, who garnered 1,692 votes. This win marks Black’s continuation on the board where she pledges to keep advocating for students’ and teachers’ needs.

“Thank you to the voters of District 11 for once again choosing me as your school board representative,” Black expressed in a heartfelt statement. “I’m excited to get back on the school board to continue improving working conditions for our teachers and making our schools a welcoming place for every student in Hamilton County.”

Four New Republican Faces

With the newly elected members, the school board will now have a composition of seven Republicans and four Democrats. This change highlights a significant shift, as it previously had six Republicans, three Democrats, and two independents.

District 1: Steve Slater vs. Tammy Barnes

Steve Slater took the win with 2,849 votes against Democrat Tammy Barnes’ 812 votes. Slater, from Soddy-Daisy, aims to focus on school safety, enhancing facilities, and assessing whether budget items yield a return on investment.

District 2: Ben Daugherty vs. Crystal Boehm

This race was the county’s most expensive school board competition. Daugherty clinched 3,356 votes, defeating independent Crystal Boehm who had 2,274 votes. It’s noted that Daugherty raised a staggering amount for his campaign efforts. He expressed gratitude and eagerness to serve District 2’s families, focusing on improving facilities and supporting strong family units.

District 7: Jodi Schaffer vs. David Sean Kelman

Jodi Schaffer gathered 2,015 votes to beat independent candidate David Sean Kelman, who received 1,467 votes. Schaffer, a lawyer from East Brainerd, emphasizes promoting a close relationship between students, parents, and teachers while upholding constitutional values in her decisions.

District 10: Felice Hadden vs. Angie Stone Jackson

Felice Hadden emerged victorious with 1,633 votes against Democrat Angie Stone Jackson’s 849 votes. Hadden, from Ooltewah, wishes to ensure every student enjoys a safe and engaging learning atmosphere with qualified teachers and minimal distractions.

Loss of Institutional Knowledge

With five new members joining, the board will face a significant change in its dynamic. The election resulted in four incumbents stepping down, potentially leading to a loss in institutional knowledge. However, these new faces bring fresh perspectives that could shape the future of Hamilton County Schools.

Looking Ahead

Starting September 1, the new representatives will officially begin their duties. The Hamilton County school board members play a crucial role in appointing and overseeing the superintendent, crafting district policies, and approving the annual budget to support the district, which serves over 44,500 students and operates 79 schools.

While the election marked an end to a busy campaign season, it signifies the beginning of new challenges and opportunities for the Hamilton County School Board.