photo via Facebook.

Now we have three, count 'em, three candidates running for Athens-Clarke County Commission in District 3. Rachel Watkins is joining Herb Gilmore and Melissa Link in the race to replace retiring Commissioner George Maxwell.

Watkins lives in Boulevard and works in marketing at Avid Bookshop and the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau. She sent out this mass email yesterday:

After hearing from several of you today who read in The Flagpole that Herb Gilmore and Melissa Link intend to run as well, I want to assure everyone that I remain committed to running for District 3 commissioner. 

I will be releasing an announcement soon outlining my campaign platform built on challenges and issues we’ll face in District 3 and Athens over the next four years.  

Thanksgiving is a time to be spent with friends and family and I wish you all a wonderful holiday and safe travels. Please join me on December 11, 2013, at the new Hi-Lo on Prince Avenue for a celebration of our community and an opportunity for you to share concerns and ideas for District 3. 

I have been overwhelmed by the support I have already received from my friends and neighbors. Thank you for your encouragement of me and my work in our community.