Let's work together Lee County!  These are the words I will live by every day as your county commissioner.  I have met with thousands of residents to discuss all levels of government, and two consistent messages emerge: Spending and taxes must be reduced; and partisan, divisive politics have proven costly and unproductive.  As Mayor, I led the charge to reduce spending last year, the first time city government had reduced spending in anyone's memory.  While Lee County and most other jurisdictions raised taxes, we lowered ours.  It is not a matter of government doing the residents a favor, it is a matter of doing what is right.

People must always come before politics.  That is why it is imperative to build strong relationships between municipal, county, state and federal government.  Lawsuits must be considered only as a last resort, after all opportunity for settlement has been exhausted.  Ill conceived litigation wastes taxpayers' money. 

"Working together" may sound idealistic, but it must serve as a cornerstone of good government.  I always have, and always will, be open to all citizens, whether in person, by e-mail, or telephone.  Suggestions and ideas provided to me have made our community a better place to live.  A government of the people must never forget who we are elected to serve.