Justin Kofer, Republican nominee for Knox County Commission, urges forensic audits and expanded office hours

Justin Kofer, the Republican nominee for Knox County Commission at-large seat 10, laid out a platform centered on fiscal restraint, transparency and expanded constituent access during a campaign appearance. He said he will pursue a line-by-line review of the county budget and "advocate for independent forensic audits, especially on our large capital expenses," to ensure tax dollars are spent effectively.

Kofer framed listening as the core of his approach. "Leadership starts with listening," he said, describing months of door-knocking across Knox County that he said convinced him many residents feel ignored by government. He told listeners that restoring that connection is a principal reason he ran for the seat.

Kofer criticized his Democratic opponent, Katina Sharp, calling her "a progressive Democrat" and arguing that, in local government, progressivism translates into "bigger government, heavier regulation" and higher taxes. "A bigger bureaucratic machine always leads to the exact same result, higher taxes for the working families," he said, adding that he disagrees with that approach.

On constituent access, Kofer promised to establish regular open office hours across all districts and to meet voters in neighborhood settings and small businesses rather than requiring constituents to come to the county building. He said this would give residents more direct access than the three-minute public-comment model at formal meetings.

Kofer framed the role of an individual commissioner as a lever for transparency. "One commissioner can ask uncomfortable questions," he said, "one commissioner can stand up in the room and demand: Have we actually listened to the people who have to live with the consequences of our actions?" He urged a disciplined approach to budgeting and said voters should expect commissioners to be "good stewards" of public funds.

He closed by thanking attendees and reminding them of the Aug. 6 election date, urging support for what he described as non-establishment Republican candidates.

The remarks did not include specific ordinance or budget items, nor did the transcript record a formal motion or vote. Kofer identified himself in the speech as a husband and father, and as a veteran of the United States Air Force.