Odell, who was sworn in as county executive in 2011 after a special election, then re-elected in 2014, never foresaw her time in Putnam leading to the county's top elected position.
"I never, ever imagined that I would be in politics although I was the current events Social Studies nerd growing up," Odell said. "I just became very involved in my community when I became a young mother. I looked at this community I had grown up in and realized I didn't know anybody anymore."
Now, Odell tackles the political landscape of Putnam County by viewing potential issues as opportunities.
"Because this is the county I grew up in, I'm very proud to be here. I live right on the hill. Same place I grew up in," Odell said. "For me, it's a dream job."
Odell also discussed:
- What makes Putnam County special? (0:08 into clip)
- What got Odell into politics? (0:27 into clip)
- The challenges facing Putnam County. (1:12 into clip)
- Is there anything in particular that makes politics in Putnam County so wild? (2:06 into clip)
- Any aspirations for higher political office? (2:58 into clip)
- What Odell hopes to accomplish as county executive. (3:36 into clip)
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