ALMA — Longtime Alma Mayor Roger Boatright has announced his candidacy for the State Senate District 7 seat.

District 7, which encompasses Atkinson, Bacon, Berrien, Clinch, Coffee, Echols, Lanier, Pierce and Ware counties and most of Cook County, is currently represented by Sen. Peg Blitch. Blitch recently disclosed that she will not seek re-election.

“I have had many conversations with friends, family, and citizens throughout the 7th district and have received much encouragement and support for my candidacy,” Boatright said. ” I am proud of my work as both a member of the city council and as Mayor of Alma and want to continue my service to our region in the State Senate.”

Boatright, who said his experience as a local leader will help him enhance community and economic development in rural South Georgia, has served as mayor of Alma since 1990 and, before that, served four years on the Alma City Council. In addition, he served as a Georgia State Patrolman from 1972 to 1987.

“I truly believe that as a public servant your first and foremost concern is the wellbeing of the people that you represent. As 7th District state senator, I will continue serving the people by working for more jobs, safer communities, and better schools for our children,” Boatright said.

As an elected official of the City of Alma, Boatright was active in the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and held several leadership positions, serving as president of the statewide organization in 2001. Boatright was also recently commended by Gov. Sonny Perdue for his 13 years of service as a member of the board of directors of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, an agency that is responsible for making grants to local governments in rural Georgia.

“It is imperative that the state Senate has members who understand the many challenges facing local governments in rural Georgia today, and I am the candidate with that knowledge and experience. I intend to be a voice for all citizens in our communities, as well as a voice for local law enforcement,” said Boatright.

Boatright lives in Alma with his wife of 35 years, Joy. They have one daughter, Patti Joy Fort, who is married to Clint Fort. The Boatrights attend the First Baptist Church of Alma.

Douglas orthodontist Gregory Goggans and Berrien County businessman Ronnie Hall have also announced plans to run for the District 7 seat.