VOTE411 Voter Guide

The main responsibility of a Commissioner is to wisely consider how to utilize the taxpayer's contribution to the tax roll. I have an obligation to consider the common good, welfare and dignity of the individual, i.e. the citizens, taxpayers and Employees of Rutherford County. I am committed to a balanced budget. A balanced budget, incorporating employee pay and benefits being as high as possible, while maintaining a healthy fund balance to be used for non-recurring expenses. A nonrecurring expense such as consultation fees for an updated Rutherford County Long Range Traffic Study. Furthermore, a healthy fund balance allows us to have a AAA bond rating, which saves millions of dollars in debt service payments.

During my participation in the creation of PlanRutherford, I attended a town hall meeting held at MTSU. On display were the top 5 results of a survey asking participants, “what are your biggest concerns?” [paraphrased]. Solid waste and traffic were the top two responses. That inspired me. Two goals, among many for me continue to be 1) comprehensive solid waste solutions 2) implementation of a comprehensive traffic plan.

I will support the Transfer Station as the first step in a comprehensive solid waste plan. I will continue to investigate alternatives to the current dump & bury solution. I will continue to lead and participate in advocating for solid waste solutions that are proven, successful and affordable. Regarding traffic, I will continue to support my initiative of quarterly meetings of countywide Planning and Engineering Depts. Participants compare notes of local activity. I will support the Capital Improvement Plan that I initiated. This plan forecasts priorities and costs of new buildings, maintenance of existing buildings and costs of new traffic improvements. I will facilitate an update to Rutherford County’s Long Range Traffic Plan.