Both Sharon Burton and the Rev. Milton Patterson ran relatively low-key campaigns for the post of Ward 2 alderman in Magnolia before the May 7 primary.
As Tuesday’s Democratic runoff approaches, both candidates agree on one thing: Recreational activities in Magnolia leave a lot to be desired.
Burton led the primary with 57 votes, or 39 percent of the vote. Patterson forced a runoff in the four-person race after he garnered 44 votes, or 30 percent. The winner replaces the Rev. James Jones, who did not seek re-election.
“We need some type of recreation center for the children, whether it’s indoor or outdoor,” Burton said. “There also could be arts and crafts at the center for the family. McComb has a recreation center, but Magnolia doesn’t.”
Patterson agreed it’s something to work on.
“We need a recreation area in Magnolia for kids. We need more things to do for the children and elderly. That’s an issue,” he said. “I would be willing to do what I can to bring recreation to fruition. Our kids don’t have a place to do things.”
Burton worked with Southwest Mental Health for 10 years.
“I used to do a lot with the youth in Pike County,” she said. “I saw a need there. We need a playground or park. I want to work with the mayor and all the aldermen to meet that goal.”
Burton is in her first political race. She said she spoke with citizens to find out what was on their minds before deciding to run. Repairing city streets is also an issue that voters have talked about.
Patterson, 64, served on the South Pike school board for 25 years. He lost out in the last lection to challenger Eva Andrews.
Patterson lives in the recently annexed area that is approximately a mile south of Love’s Truck Stop on Quinlivan Road.
“The opportunity to run before wasn’t there,” Patterson said. “I was approached by several people to run. ... I decided to put my name on the ballot.
“I know people know me in the general area. I plan to do some door-to-door (campaigning) to let people know I’m running,” Patterson said. “I would love to represent the ward for Magnolia.”
Patterson said he would like to see more city services come to the annexed area.
“We see some of the basic city services in the area we’re in that was annexed,” Patterson said. “As far as police visibility and trash pickup, we see all the time. But there are some things in the city that are lacking and we haven’t heard any plans that really target us as being a part of the city, like sewers. That is a major issue. I would like to see sewers in the area. We desperately need it.”
Patterson retired from Walmart Distribution in Brookhaven five years ago after some 18 years on the job. He is the pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.
“I would like the board of aldermen to have a great relationship with the City of Magnolia as a whole and do what it can for all the citizens, regardless of racial makeup,” Patterson said. “I tell people all the time I’m not a politician. I just try to do what’s best for the people.”
