Cowles has challenge from Mills in 51st District race

October 22, 2008|By TRISH RUDDER

BERKELEY SPRINGS, W.Va. - Incumbent Republican Daryl E. Cowles was elected to the 51st District House of Delegates seat two years ago, replacing Charles Trump, who did not seek re-election after serving for 14 years.

The district covers portions of Morgan and Hampshire counties. Cowles is from Morgan County. Robin Mills, the Mountain Party candidate, is from Hampshire County. No Democrat is running.

Mills declined to offer a photo for this story.

Daryl E. Cowles

Age: 38

Address: 2612 Martinsburg Road, Berkeley Springs, W.Va.

Occupation: Self-employed

Party: Republican

What is the top issue facing Morgan County? The main issue facing the Morgan County area is the economic slowdown and the additional burdens or challenges residents will face as a result. State government must focus on stimulating job growth and business investment through new/expanded infrastructure (water, sewer, roads), tax relief and business tax reform.

Why should 51st District residents vote for you? I am asking the citizens of the Morgan County area to vote for me so I can continue to work for a fiscally responsible state government, needed tax relief, and tax reform. With life-long ties to our community, I share the values of my friends and neighbors and will work to protect our freedoms and rights.

Robin Mills

Age: 50

Address: P.O. Box 80, Rio, W.Va.

Background: Bachelor's degree in political science; was an electrician in U.S. Navy; is a veteran and was honorably discharged

Party: Mountain

What is the top issue facing Morgan County? The main issue in Morgan County is the Potomac-Appalachian Transmission Highline (PATH), and we must stop it. It is now being considered for Hampshire and Hardy counties.

The utilities want to burn coal in West Virginia and send the power east. These transmission lines do nothing for us. The answer is not to build more lines or more power plants - the answer is efficiency and conservation with wind and solar and clean energy.

Why should 51st District residents vote for you? I have more experience and education than my opponent, and I would like your vote please so that I can stop the injustice of mountaintop removal coal mining.

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