By Eugene McNallan
My experience as a husband, father, grandfather, farmer and four years as your county commissioner gives me an understanding and sensitivity to the issues that confront Wabasha County.
I take a realistic, researched approach when responding to decisions that must be made. I believe citizen input and involvement are important. Listening to people's concerns and understanding their expectations helps make more pro-active decisions for county government.
We have, in the last four years, despite all of the state and federal cuts in county aid and programs, continued to provide basic county government services. Many changes and cuts in personnel, programs, and service delivery had to be made. Our small tax base, combined with mandated services, and cuts in state funding, for social services, public health and other areas have made budgeting a challenge. We have held the increases in the levy at or below county growth rate. Many of the changes/cuts have created some inconvenience for staff and taxpayers. I believe holding the line on spending and taxes in these uncertain times is necessary for Wabasha County.
Voters should not be denied their right to vote on a bond for a new county jail when the present jail needs to be replaced. There are short-term affordable solutions that allow time for solid decision making by our county. The jail issue needs a lot of research, careful planning, and citizen input on need, size, location, design, and future needs and affordability.
ADVERTISEMENT
The jail is not something that should be decided in a hurry, based on emotions, or county staff desires. Solid decision making needs citizen input and involvement, as well as professional assistance. Necessity and affordability needs to drive the decision, not the wants of various groups. A decision regarding the feasibility of a new jail will impact the taxpayers for many years and should not be done in haste.
I thank you for your past and continuing support as your district one commissioner. Together we can make sound decisions for Wabasha County's future.
Eugene McNallan is seeking re-election to the District 1 seat on the Wabasha County Board of Commissioners.
