As an US Army Veteran, former police officer, and with current financial oversight over the Penn Township Fire Territory, I have a unique insight into the challenges faced by first responders. The first and most important duty of any government body is to make sure its residents are safe and have access to the best police, fire, and EMS response available. I will always unflinchingly support our police and firefighters as well as all first responders.

No level of government should operate at a deficit. We do not have the luxury as individuals to overspend our budgets without dire consequences. Government should be no different. Holding county departments accountable for fiscally sound budgets is essential. Financial oversight and control from the county council is mandatory. We must not follow the federal model of “kicking the can down the road”. It is irresponsible and, more importantly, destructive to future generations.

To promote sustained growth and prosperity, roads and other county-provided services must be maintained with high quality. More emphasis is needed in the planning and operation of these services to include snow removal and leaf pick-up. This has been less than adequate in the past and must be improved.

Nearly half of all employees in St. Joseph County work for small businesses. Although every effort should be made to create an environment that attracts large businesses to St. Joseph County, it should be done while also considering the effect on small businesses that call St. Joseph County their home.