What are the top three issues facing Leavenworth County, and how would you address them, if elected?

Comprehensive plan, economic development and providing infrastructure improvements.

I will continue supporting the formation of the county comprehensive plan. It is a very important step in planning the county’s future growth.

I have been active in promoting economic development. We’ve shared our planning resources with Tonganoxie and Basehor. It worked out so well Tonganoxie hired our shared planner full time. I am working with Leavenworth Area Development, the Leavenworth County-County Port Authority. Through the combined efforts, there are three business parks in Leavenworth County. I have been serving on the MARC board, keeping abreast with issues that can or will affect the region, such as transportation plans of both states, 911 services and funding. Through MARC, we’ve learned Washington is putting us in with Kansas City quality air control area. If this happens they are in a status of non-compliance, it could jeopardize future funding of our transportation funding projects. Also, it could cost our present business regulatory compliance issues in their operations.

I will continue working with fellow commissioners, staff and citizens on ways to accomplish infrastructure improvements in an affordable manner without raising the mill levy.

Do you favor hiring a county administrator for the county? Explain your answer.

I think that decision should be decided by the people. Two years ago, I voted to put hiring an administrator on the ballot. It failed by a strong majority. I think it’s too soon, this November election, but it would be appropriate in a couple of years.

What unique qualifications do you have to handle the job of county commissioner?

First of all, I am a team player! I have the ability to listen to everyone’s concerns and ideas, gather information, pro and con, before I form my own decisions. I believe public officials should practice honesty, integrity and have high morals in their private lives, as well as in their public lives. I do my best to be a role model to our youth and citizens.

What steps should be taken to increase cooperation among county commissioners?

I believe commissioners must respect and trust one another at all times. I insist all have the same rights of thoughts, ideas and opinions and the opportunity to express them. I believe after the due process of deliberations and decisions have been made, each member of the commission moves forward, regardless of his or her vote and supports that decision as having been the “board’s decision.”

What role should the county play in expanding the area’s tax base?

I will continue to support the unified efforts ongoing in economic development, which is expanding the area’s tax base. I will seek out any new ideas that arise and pursue new opportunities.