Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
District 6 Councilman Ryan Bragg is being challenged by Jana Black Myers for his seat on Barnwell City Council.
Ryan Bragg is seeking re-election on Barnwell City Council for the District 6 seat.
Jana Black Myers is vying for the District 6 seat on Barnwell City Council.
District 6 Councilman Ryan Bragg is seeking re-election for his Barnwell City Council seat. He's being challenged by Jana Black Myers.
RYAN BRAGG
Ryan Bragg, a lifelong Barnwell Co. resident, was elected to council in Nov. 2021.
"I look forward to continuing to serve the citizens of Barnwell and lend a helping hand," he said.
He grew up in Hilda and graduated Barnwell High in 2005. He earned an associate in industrial Electronics from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College. He's been employed with SRS for 9 years.
He and his wife Shanon have 4 children (Sadie, 7, Amelia, 5, Garrett, 3, and Sonnie, who will be 1 in December). They are active members at Bethany Baptist.
JANA BLACK MYERS
Jana Black Myers has lived in Barnwell most of her life.
After high school, she relocated to Charleston, Orlando, FL, Grand Rapids, MI, Knoxville, TN, and back to Charleston. About two years ago, she and husband Chris decided to move back to Barnwell so their young daughters could grow up with their cousins and spend more time with family.
"The city needs to help increase ways for resident involvement in regard to discussing issues. It is challenging for residents to attend meetings with their work and home life, so the city needs to reach out in different ways to gain their insight. Residents of Barnwell have voices that need to be heard and the city must find ways to make that happen," she said.
Myers works remotely for a company based out of Florida in information technology.
Why are you seeking election?
BRAGG: I am seeking re-election because I’d like to continue to serve the citizens in our community. I’d like to continue to help the City of Barnwell grow.
MYERS: I am seeking election because I would like to keep and reinforce the qualities of Barnwell that led and will continue to lead residents to make the decision to reside here. I would like to increase trust between the residents and the city through integrity and transparency. Furthermore, I want to make sure that our residents are heard. We have a small vocal group but there are many that don’t feel they have time for local politics or don’t have an interest because they don’t know how the issues affect them. We need to get them involved and their voices heard.
What makes you the best candidate?
BRAGG: I have always believed in this community and have never left this town that I love. I genuinely want to do what’s best for the whole community. I already have a foundation in numerous projects and with the citizens. I believe the council can continue to work cohesively.
MYERS: I will not say that I am the best candidate, rather I am the right candidate for District 6. Residents in District 6 want and need a candidate that is passionate about the job, available for communication, and outspoken about the questions, concerns, and ideas that the residents have. They need someone they can trust to speak up for them and make decisions that are in their best interest.
How are you involved in the community?
BRAGG: My family and I have a motto of shopping local to help the local economy grow. I have helped coach recreational sports, and have served many hundreds of hours with our church in the community.
MYERS: I moved back to Barnwell a couple of years ago. Since then, we have settled into our new home and spent time with our relatives. I volunteer when and where I am able to and I will continue to stay involved in the community any way I can moving forward, regardless of the outcome of the election.
Governing a town is a group effort. How would you work with others?
BRAGG: One of my best abilities is to listen. I will listen to the needs and concerns of citizens and other town leaders. The council is like a body. It can’t run properly if all parts aren’t working together. In order to work together we all need to come together with the purest intentions. I’d like to see each citizen contribute their talents toward furthering the growth of the City of Barnwell.
MYERS: I would work with all council members, staff and administrators as needed.
What do you love about the community?
BRAGG: I love how in the face of adversity and in the joys of life we come together. There is no shortage of helping hands in Barnwell. I love how I know local shop owners and get to keep up with their families. I love how my family and I get to be a part of this little town that feels more like one big family.
MYERS: That it is just that, a community. Everyone rallies together in times of need with no questions asked.
If elected, what are your top priorities?
BRAGG: Hand in hand with the citizens of Barnwell I’d like to see the completion of the Barnwell City Fire Department. I’d like to see the needs met of the city employees, like the Police Department, whether it be equipment or training so that they can do their job to the best of their ability with the best technology available.
MYERS: If I am elected, my top priorities would be to find ways to improve housing availability, lower taxes, utilize resources more effectively to fight crime/drugs/speeding, and bring in new commercial and entertainment opportunities for the residents of Barnwell.
If you aren't elected, how will you work to be involved and make a difference?
BRAGG: I will continue to serve in the community via church outreach programs, city wide cleanups, and will always be willing to help a neighbor.
MYERS: If I am not elected, I will continue to volunteer when and where I can and also make sure that all residents know they can still reach out to me with any questions, concerns, and/or ideas. I may not be in a position of authority, but I will still be available to listen and help anyway that I can. I would continue to stay in touch with my elected officials and share my thoughts or concerns in a constructive manner.
