Turin candidates: We want to protect small-town feel | News

Sprouse and Smith have lived in the community for just a few years. Sprouse moved from Douglasville to Turin because he and his wife wanted to live in a smaller, more rural community, he said.

Sprouse said he’s impressed with how Turin has expanded its infrastructure while still rolling back the millage rate. He mentioned some recent paving, work in the community park and the water filtration system as well as plans to put in some sidewalks as projects he’s noticed.

Smith, who built a house in a new subdivision in the town two years ago, said he likes the small town feel.

“I know most cities like to grow,” Smith said. “But it’s like, living in Turin is – it’s a happy little place.”

Stapp, the incumbent council member, has lived in the town for more than 14 years. He also loves the small-town feel, Stapp said..

“It’s a close community because we’re small,” Stapp said. “People know each other. People know what you do in your off time. …. We walk the streets at night. You see your neighbors. You see them walking their pets. You’re going to see their kids grow up.”

Stapp said he originally ran for town council to protect his investment.

“I got into politics to maintain my home’s value in my neighborhood (and) keep my neighborhood safe,” he said. “That’s my way of serving the community.”

But over the years, it’s made him closer to the community, and that weighs on every decision he makes, Stapp said.

“I take the town of Turin and its whole population as part of my family,” he said.

Sprouse said he has specific things he would like to accomplish if elected. He would like to address code enforcement “or the…