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Today, Commissioner Brian Tam announced his candidacy for re-election to the Board of Commissioners, representing Forsyth County’s second district. Beginning his eighth year of elected service to our community, Commissioner Tam’s focus has been on economic development, the enhancement of local health care opportunities and the enrichment of our schools.

Tam, a resident of Forsyth County for more than 17 years, operates Tam’s Backstage Restaurant in Cumming with his wife Kelly. With three children of their own, the Tam’s commitment to supporting quality education has always been a top priority. In 2007, Tam’s Backstage was honored with the Partners in Education’s Gold Level Award for their long term dedication to quality public education.

As a graduate of Leadership Forsyth, a recipient of the Don Hendricks Memorial Award and one of nine statewide recipients of the 2008 Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals’ Patron Award, Tam understands the importance of giving to his community and of creating a place where families and children can thrive.

Additionally, Commissioner Tam has had unparalleled success in fostering economic development opportunities throughout the entire county. “As a Commissioner, I have had an opportunity to make a difference in the direction of our community,” said Tam. “I am seeking re-election to the Board of Commissioners because I am committed to continually protecting taxpayers while promoting private sector job creation and making critical infrastructure improvements.”

“As a small business operator, I appreciate what it takes to live within a budget, meet a payroll and manage inventory in a fiscally responsible manner,” Tam continued.

“As a former member of the Board of Directors of the Cumming Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, I have experienced first hand the difference that a strong economic development plan, low tax rates and attractive amenities make in a community,” stated Tam.

Tam’s direction and vision have led to the acquisition of hundreds of acres of greenspace, new recreation centers at Old Atlanta and Fowler Parks, the opening of a Senior Center in South Forsyth, the implementation of an early warning weather system to guarantee the continued safety of local residents, an additional Sheriff’s precinct located adjacent to South Forsyth High, the continuation of the widening of Highway 141 and bringing The Avenues Forsyth to our area along with the placement of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta in that development.

“As a steward of Forsyth County, I firmly believe it is my responsibility to preserve our quality of life as well as our strong economic viability,” said Tam. “I am proud that during my most recent term in office and with my work on the Finance Committee of Forsyth County, we have maintained our AAA bond rating.”

Commissioner Tam has been a staunch advocate for Forsyth County at the Capitol and often a key point man on critical issues for many of Georgia’s highest elected officials. Upon hearing of Tam’s intention to seek re-election, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle issued the following statement:

“I have known Commissioner Brian Tam since he began serving on the County Commission eight years ago. Forsyth County has greatly benefited from his leadership and dedication to his constituents. I consider him a true public servant and am honored to call him my friend.”

Additionally, Attorney General Sam Olens stated “Commissioner Tam is a thoughtful public servant who is educated on the needs of his constituency. The citizens of Forsyth are fortunate to be represented by him.”

In 2008, Commissioner Tam was successfully reelected to serve a second term with 55% percent of the countywide vote – avoiding a runoff in a four-way contest.

Brian and Kelly Tam reside in South Forsyth with their three children. They worship at Browns Bridge Community Church.