York County Commissioner candidates discuss intent, reasons for running
They have each responded to a questionnaire regard-ng different aspects of their intentions and why they are running. These are being amblished exactly as they were submitted, with no edit-ng or changes. They are be-ng presented in the order the responses were submitted.
District seat sought:
Life status: I am retired after 25 years, owner it
Background: I have a 3A in accounting. Worked ^5 years at
Q: What prompted you o file your candidacy for his position?
A: I was recently interviewed and chosen for the ob. I simply want to serve he people of
Q: Is there a specific issue you want to address if you are elected?
A: I would like to help figure out the most efficient way for the county to function while at the same time providing excellent services.
Q: Do you feel all the individuals in the county ire adequately represented find do you feel property owners reach out enough to participate in county government?
A: I think
Q: What would you want to see the county aboard do differently than hey are right now?
A: If I am elected, I would have "coffee day" with your commissioner once a month in the towns would represent. I would share what was going on with commissioners and listen to their concerns. I think he more exchange there is between the people and their representative, the less conclusion and conflict there is.
Q: There is the possibility that inheritance tax night be repealed in Nerbaska. It's been a very important revenue source for bounties for decades. If it is repealed, what do you feel he ramifications will be for he county and what types )f expenses should be cut if hat is the case?
A: I feel that modifying he tax would be better than epealing it. Distant relatives are taxed much more han sons and daughters. If repealed, I would hope that he state would provide additional funds or take away iome unfunded mandates.
Q: Zoning regulations lave dominated the county's planning/zoning commission and county board n recent months. How lo you feel about zoning "or solar projects in
A: I feel that the county should proceed cautious-y I believe in landowners' fights, as long as it does not mrt or harm their neighbors.
Q: There has been men-ion of starting the work )ii the zoning regulations 'or wind-generated energy projects in
A: I feel that wind and battery capture of energy should also be handled cauiously. These are relatively lewer processes to produce electricity.
Q: How do you feel about the operations of the
A: I have been commissioner for just over two months now. I can tell you that everyone in the courthouse is working as hard as they can to provide the best service they can to the people of
Q: Do you feel the security at the
A: I feel security is adequate. The fact that the county sheriff's office is in the building is a huge benefit to security. They are always there when needed.
Q: Serving as a county commissioner can take up a significant amount of time each week. Do you have available time to serve?
A: I am available every day of the year. I do have a summer job which has OK'd me to do this work when needed.
Q:
A: I feel the roads department is doing a good job. Could they do better, of course. There could be more continuous training. The question is where do we get more funding for roads. The roads in the country were not built for today's farming equipment. The cost to rebuild roads is astronomical.
Q: The county absorbs a lot of costs associated with taking care of inmates in the
A: I think the
Q: The current county jail was built in the 1980s as it is original to the courthouse. It is often over-populated as the number of inmates are limited. Do you feel the county will have to construct a new jail in the future and if so, how should it be paid for?
A: I do not see in the near future building a new jail. Improvements and updates will always need to be made.
A: I do not feel that the people would like having their services cut. I do believe that the county could be more innovated in creating revenue without creating new or higher taxes. The state eliminating some unfunded mandates would be a great place to start. If the county could create more revenue in rural areas it would help.
Q: What do you feel are the most important areas of spending when it comes to the
A: Employees, facilities/equipment, roads. Good employees are so important now because of the shortage of employees in
Q: Why do you want to serve your county in this capacity?
A: Your question is my answer. Because I want to serve.
I have always served my community. I served as a baseball coach for 25-plus years for kids from across the county. I have served on the York Parks and Rec
Life Status: Veteran Service Officer for
Background: 15 years
Q: What prompted you to file for candidacy for this position?
A: To represent and be a voice for the communities of
Q: Is there a specific issue you want to address if you are elected?
A: Not really one issue. Working in the courthouse currently, I feel I can be a voice for the employees that serve the public and take in their concerns.
Q: Do you feel all the individuals in the county are adequately represented and do you feel property owners reach out enough to participate in county government?
A: Hopefully property owners are reaching out and sharing their concerns/ problems so they can be addressed appropriately.
Q: What would you want to see the county board do differently than they are right now?
A: Open communication. Personally, I feel that a lot is being is happening behind closed doors.
Q: There is a possibility that inheritance tax might be repealed in
A: With property tax being one of the Governors top priorities I don't see inheritance tax being repealed right away. But we need to look at how to preserve and generate more funds if needed.
Q: Zoning regulations have dominated the county's planning/zoning commission and county board in recent months. How do you feel about zoning for solar projects in
A: The planning/zoning commission has work tirelessly on coming up with regulation that haven't been there before. We need to listen to those people that have been put in that position making those suggestions. As far as Solar panels are concerned, we have to rich of farm ground to be giving up for energy, a half mile isn't that far away.
Q: There has been mention of starting the work on the zoning regulations for wind-generated energy projects in
A: First, I want to commend the planning and zoning board for the hard work they have done as it is not an easy job they have. Wind towers or wind mills, I look at them like a radio or tv tower. They should have to be the height of the tower plus the set backs from the road in order to prevent any damage to nearby structures and roads.
Q: How do you feel about the operations of the
A: The constituents of
Q: Do you feel the security at the
A: Security is and has been a topic for many years. Currently there is no safety precautions in place to stop anyone from harming one another. COVID slowed the process down by having glass installed on certain offices but that is a limited group of people.
Q: Serving as a county commissioner can take up a significant amount of time each week. Do you have available time to serve?
A: I believe I do. That's a bridge we will cross and except every challenge as they come.
Q:
A: Yes, it does take a lot of money but we have to have adequate training and resources for our main-tainers. Without qualified team members and a leadership team that understands what it takes to make a great team our roads will be what they are. But it all starts on the front line, from the top down, to the men and/ or women running the machines.
Q: The county absorbs a lot of costs associated with taking care of inmates in the
A: Unfortunately, increasing costs are everywhere. I know the Sheriff and County Attorney look at every case and make the best determination possible for each person. Sometimes the court system takes time and the cost rise.
Q: The current county jail was built in the 1980s as it is original to the court house. It is often over-populated as the number of inmates are limited. Do you feel the county will have to construct a new jail in the future and if so, how should it be paid for.
A: I do believe a new jail will be needed in the future. I would like to see other counties involved and possible an interlocal agreement with them to house inmates. I think that will take the burden off them and us, along with an income.
A: Honestly, it comes down to department heads and elected officials to manage their budgets. There isn't a need to go to every conference spending money on hotels all the time. Pick and chose the ones need to get the best bang for the buck. Unfortunately, there are some offices that go to numerous of the same trainings multiple times a year.
Q: What do you feel are the most important areas of spending when it comes to the
A: People. The employees are the ones who run and operate the day-to-day tasks. With out qualified, trained people then we are constantly spending money on training and not service the public people.
Q: Why do you want to serve your county in this capacity?
A: I want to represent the people of our rural areas and make sure that they have a voice that is heard and they can be taken care of.
District seat sought:
Life status: I am graduating from
Background: I lived in
I will graduate from
I have worked as a Lifeguard, construction labor and mowed a lot of lawns.
Q: What prompted you to file your candidacy for this position?
A: I have always been interested in history and government. I have read a lot about both. Many of the founding fathers of our nation were involved in government at a very young age.
Several experiences helped me to realize that the Government was made of real people and that it was something I could participate in and have a positive impact on my community. One of these experiences was Boys' state, where I was a committee chair and part of the legislature. Attempting to pass laws and work together with all these different people was frustrating, but also fascinating. We had the opportunity to hear two Nebraska State Senators talk about their jobs and some recent issues.
The second thing that prompted me to file was talking to
The third reason I decided to run is because
Q: Is there a specific issue you want to address if you are elected?
A: I would like to pave the way for paving county roads, (see question about roads further down)
Q: Do you feel all the individuals in the county are adequately represented and do you feel property owners reach out enough to participate in county government?
A: I feel that the way the County is divided into districts helps to give voice to farmers, as well as those living in smaller communities such as
I feel that the current County Commissioners make themselves available to their constituents, and in many cases would appreciate more input.
Q: What would you want to see the county board do differently than they are right now?
A: I would have them reconsider some of the proposed restrictions on Solar projects in
Q: There is the possibility that inheritance tax might be repealed in
A: If the bill passes, the inheritance tax will be phased out over a period of five years. Several state senators have stated that their support for the bill is dependent on whether or not there will be some sort of replacement revenue source for the counties. These two conditions should smooth out the transition by giving more time to move to a new plan.
Unfortunately, a large portion of the County Budget goes to salaries, so budget cuts will have real effects on real people.
I would examine the budget and look for spending outside of the primary responsibilities of Government.
Q: Zoning regulations have dominated the county's planning/zoning commission and county board in recent months. How do you feel about zoning for solar projects in
A: I feel that zoning laws are important to have, but so is freedom. These solar projects are proposed for private property, so the government should stay out as much as possible. Solar doesn't affect adjacent properties according to the research I have done. The measurable concerns are heat and glare, but the heat dissipates completely well within the smallest proposed setbacks, and the glare is blocked by the tall fence around the solar panels that is required by the proposed regulations.
I have talked to quite a number of
However, I believe that the half-mile setbacks are too far. I can't find a good reason for that distance, and I believe it is a dangerous encroachment on property rights to be going to the government to tell my neighbor what they can and cannot do with their own property.
I err on the side of freedom, and hope that people will be able to reach agreement with their neighbors without the government getting too involved.
Q: There has been mention of starting the work on the zoning regulations for wind-generated energy projects in
A: I believe wind projects are different from solar farms, because they completely dominate the landscape. A typical wind turbine is well over 250 feet tall, and many people find them to be ugly and noisy. I personally don't mind them, but some people have very strong feelings about them.
I still believe that regulations are for the safety and wellbeing of the community, not just for any whim, but a County Commissioner's job is to represent their district. If my constituents felt that certain limits needed to be placed on wind projects, I would work for that goal.
Again, I would like to see property owners communicating with each other and coming to their own agreements without having to make so much regulation.
Q: How do you feel about the operations of the
A: My experience with the various offices have been positive. It is friendlier and far more efficient than
Q: Do you feel the security at the
A: We live in a very safe community. I don't feel that additional security is necessary. However, if the Sheriff or my constituents felt there was a need for new measures, I would consider bringing it to the Board.
Q: Serving as a county commissioner can take up a significant amount of time each week. Do you have available time to serve?
A: If elected Commissioner, I am committed to spend the time necessary to do the job well.
I talked to
The busiest time for a County Commissioner is Budget season, which is during the summer. I will plan my work and school schedule around my duties as Commissioner.
Q:
A: I dislike washboards. If elected, I intend to work on obtaining federal and state funding to pave more county roads. Concrete lasts a lot longer than gravel, and I believe paving could save the county millions of dollars down the road, as it were.
I printed a map of all the Road Classifications of
Q: The county absorbs a lot of costs associated with taking care of inmates in the
A: When I was given a tour of the jail with the
Q: The current county jail was built in the 1980s as it is original to the courthouse. It is often over-populated as the number of inmates are limited. Do you feel the county will have to construct a new jail in the future and if so, how should it be paid for?
A: This sort of recommendation is something that I would wait to hear from the
A: I am certain that there are areas in which costs can be cut. I hate spending money and like to research the things I buy. I hope to apply this prudent attitude to the job of County Commissioner. I was a little disappointed at the
Q: What do you feel are the most important areas of spending when it comes to the
A: The most important areas of spending for
Q: Why do you want to serve your county in this capacity?
A: I have no personal agenda, but I do have a genuine interest in learning about county government and serving my community. I believe that my youth, enthusiasm and energy would be a great asset to the
District Seat
Sought: Running for
Life status: For the past 11 years, I've dedicated myself to firefighting with the
Q: What prompted you to file your candidacy for this position?
A: I decided to run for the
Q: Is there a specific issue you want to address if you are elected?
A: I aim to persistently work towards enhancing the infrastructure within our county, particularly focusing on upgrading our road network. I'm eager to embrace innovative solutions that can alleviate some of the financial pressures we face in managing our budget. A critical aspect of our fiscal strategy involves advocating for state-level initiatives to find alternatives to the inheritance tax revenues, which play a significant role in balancing our budget. Additionally, I'm committed to adopting a visionary approach toward zoning regulations, especially concerning wind turbines, and to carefully consider the implications of zoning for other potential developments, such as nuclear facilities. This proactive stance is not just about solving current issues but preparing our county for sustainable growth and development in the future.
Q: Do you feel all the individuals in the county are adequately represented and do you feel property owners reach out enough to participate in county government?
A: I believe that the most effective representation of property owners in our county governance is achieved when they actively participate in the decision-making processes. Engagement and open dialogue are key to understanding and addressing the unique concerns and aspirations they have regarding county management. I am therefore eagerly anticipating the opportunity to engage with my constituents, to listen to their insights and challenges, and to incorporate their feedback into the way our county is governed. This collaborative approach not only ensures that their voices are heard but also enriches our governance with diverse perspectives, leading to more informed decisions and policies that reflect the collective interest of our community. I fully acknowledge the unexpected nature of the solar project and the challenges it has posed due to the absence of pre-established zoning regulations. This situation has forced us into a reactive stance, necessitating the development of a contingency plan. Moving forward, I am committed to adopting a more innovative approach to anticipate and address potential zoning challenges. This includes not only considering the immediate issues at hand but also planning for future infra structural developments such as pipelines, wind turbines, and nuclear facilities. It's imperative that we proactively establish comprehensive zoning guidelines and requirements to navigate these complex issues effectively, ensuring that we are prepared well in advance for any similar sit-nations that may arise. This forward-thinking strategy will enable us to maintain control over the development process, safeguarding the interests of our community and its residents.
Q: There is the possibility that inheritance tax might be repealed in
A: The potential repeal of the inheritance tax in
Q: Zoning regulations have dominated the county's planning/zoning commission and county board in recent months. How do you feel about zoning for solar projects in
A: Initially, my focus regarding solar projects in the county was primarily on upholding the rights of property owners who wish to embark on such initiatives. However, it's become increasingly clear that the impact of these projects extends beyond individual properties, affecting the broader community, especially neighboring residents. It's essential to consider the communal implications, such as visual impact, environmental concerns, and potential changes to the local character.
Q: There has been mention of starting the work on the zoning regulations for wind-generated energy projects in
A: To address this, I believe we can craft zoning regulations that respect the interests of property owners undertaking solar projects while also safeguarding the rights and quality of life of neighboring residents. This balanced approach would involve careful consideration of project placement, size, and design to ensure that they harmonize with the surrounding area and community values. Engaging in open dialogue with all stakeholders involved can lead to more informed and community-focused zoning policies that recognize the benefits of solar energy while maintaining the integrity of our local neighborhoods.
It's crucial to engage in proactive discussions about potential future developments, such as wind turbine projects, within our community. Initiating these conversations early on enables us to develop a comprehensive plan that aligns with the desires and expectations of our constituents. By anticipating these developments and establishing clear regulations beforehand, we position ourselves to address any concerns or questions from the outset. This foresight not only benefits our community by ensuring that projects align with our values and needs but also provides clarity to potential developers, helping them assess whether
Q: How do you feel about the operations of the
A: In my view, we're fortunate to have a group of highly capable elected officials guiding our county. My interactions within the courthouse have consistently been positive, with employees who are not only efficient but also incredibly supportive. Their dedication makes navigating county processes smoother and reinforces the sense of community we value so highly.
Q: Do you feel the security at the
A: Maintaining courthouse security is increasingly important today, and we must find the right equilibrium between ensuring safety and maintaining a welcoming environment. To explore our security options thoroughly, I plan to consult with various county department leaders and law enforcement officials. Their insights will be invaluable in shaping a security strategy that protects everyone while keeping our courthouse accessible.
Q: Serving as a county commissioner can take up a significant amount of time each week. Do you have available time to serve?
A: I understand that serving as a county commissioner comes with time commitments, especially when it involves participating in committee meetings and doing the necessary groundwork to serve effectively Fortunately, my professional life affords me the flexibility to dedicate the required time to fulfill these responsibilities efficiently and be a proactive public servant.
I appreciate the strategic approach outlined in the current 1-year and 6-year plans for county road maintenance. The task of keeping up with the extensive network of roads is becoming more challenging, especially with inflation escalating the costs of necessary projects. This financial strain means we must make difficult decisions regarding the prioritization of projects, ensuring we allocate resources to the most critical needs first.
Q:
A: Before forming an opinion on the matter, I believe it's crucial to engage in discussions with the
Q: The county absorbs a lot of costs associated with taking care of inmates in the
A: Before taking a stance on the construction of a new county jail, I must gather additional information to fully understand the necessity of such a project. It's worth exploring innovative solutions that could potentially serve dual purposes. For example, a new facility might offer the opportunity to house inmates from other counties, which could introduce a revenue stream that would help defray the costs associated with this significant undertaking. Such a strategy could provide mutual benefits, not only addressing our local needs but also offering support to neighboring jurisdictions, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to regional challenges.
A: Balancing a budget that ensures top-notch infrastructure, law enforcement, fire safety, and fair wages for county employees is indeed challenging. While no one prefers to cut beneficial programs, the reality of fiscal constraints means that difficult decisions are unavoidable in order to maintain the county's financial health and service quality. Prioritizing expenditures becomes essential to sustain the core services and responsibilities of the county.
Q: What do you feel are the most important areas of spending when it comes to the
A: Prioritizing infrastructure, law enforcement, and fire protection is essential, but other crucial areas within the county budget deserve attention. I'm eager to delve into the financial details and collaborate on establishing a direction that aligns with what the residents of
Q: Why do you want to serve your county in this capacity?
A: Should the people of my district entrust me with the privilege of representing them, I am committed to attentively hearing their voices and working collaboratively to develop solutions that garner broad support. I believe there are moments in life when it's crucial to draw upon one's accumulated experiences to contribute positively to the community. Engaging in open and continuous dialogue with constituents will be pivotal in addressing their needs and fostering a united path forward. I appreciate the opportunity to express my views on the key challenges that
District j seat sought:
Life status: Retired high school business teacher (1968-1998)
Background: (1963-67) I earned a teaching degree, BA+ 18 hours from
Q: What prompted you to file your candidacy for this position?
A: At this stage in my life, I have time to contribute to the duties of the county commissioner.
Q: Is there a specific issue you want to address if you are elected?
A: I want to see
Q: Do you feel all the individuals in the countv are adequately represented and do you feel property owners reach out enough to participate in county government?
A: Yes, individuals in the county are adequately represented. Property owners participate in county government. However, with renewed interest in private land rights, discussions and attitudes are being enhanced.
Q: What would you want to see the county board do differently than they are right now?
A: I would like the county to give ample opportunities for different ideas proposed reflecting there are individual differences on the board and the final determinations are made on the bases of what's best for
Q: There is the possibility that inheritance tax might be repealed in
A: There needs to be larger sources of revenue, unless the state provides revenues to cover the lost tax receipts from the inheritance tax. The county has taken from the inheritance tax fund when expenditures that the county would normally cover, natural disaster (excessive amount of snow with increased snow removal), (flood and soil erosion), (equipment, maintenance and cooperator private ma-
Q: Zoning regulations have dominated the county's planning/zoning commission and county board in recent months. How do you feel about zoning for solar projects in
A: Solar projects in the county have been largely small in nature, size and output. Until recently, projects have not exceeded the agricultural aspects. Large, retail projects will need to meet the ag and livestock use of county land. Solar zoning and regulations will follow with wind zoning projects and liquid C02 pipelines. The safety and welfare of the agricultural use of these energies must represent the safety and survival of
Q: How do you feel about the operations of the
A: I feel the operations of the courthouse have been exceptional where some departments have gone above and beyond by including other counties in their decision-making process.
Q: Do you feel the security at the
A: Metal detectors would need to have constant supervision. I want no life lost, but I feel comfortable entering the courthouse and feel the employees are comfortable in helping and/or assisting me,
Q: Serving as a county commissioner can take up a significant amount of time each week. Do you have available time to serve?
A: Yes, I have more time available to serve. I am very grateful for all the past services of the commissioners over my 79 years of being a part of
Q:
A: Sixty years of traveling York and
Q: The county absorbs a lot of costs associated with taking care of inmates in the
A: As a county we can't continue to provide shelter, heat, air conditioning and health care to those incarcerated without state mandates being state funded.
Q: The current county jail was built in the 1980s as it is original to the courthouse. It is often over-populated as the number of inmates are limited. Do you feel the county will have to construct a new jail in the future and if so, how should it be paid for?
A: No, it's adequate. Candidates need attitude change, it is worse inside than outside of jail.
A: Any areas you're willing to give up, throw your dollars in the hat.
Q: What do you feel are the most important areas of spending when it comes to the
A: Fire, police, ambulance, communication, roads and water
Q: Why do you want to serve your county in this capacity?
A: To show respect to those who have served before.
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