Martin County Dist. 3: Change vs. experience

The Free Press

October 06, 2008 10:00 pm

— Steve Donnelly, incumbent, is facing Bill Gunther for commissioner on Martin County’s Board representing District 3, the southeast corner of Fairmont, which includes Ward 1, Precincts 1 and 2, and Ward 2, Precinct 1.
Q: Why are you running?

Donnelly: The main reason I’m running again is because I still have a passion for the office of commissioner and because of my experience in and knowledge of county government. As the incumbent for the last 16 years, it’s obvious to see there will be tough times ahead for local government. With the knowledge and experience I’ve acquired, plus being in excellent health, I can continue to have a positive influence over the next four years.

Gunther: I have been a lifelong resident of Fairmont, Martin County. I would like to see the county commissioners have term limits. I will listen to the taxpayer and convey their wishes to the County Board. I will work with the other commissioners, county employees and our state representatives on issues as they arise.

Q: What do you see as top issues in the county and how would you tackle them?

Donnelly: Jobs and the local economy: Fortunately we have an agri-based economy plus very strong industrial, service/retail, and medical groups to round it out. For these reasons Martin County is also becoming a retirement destination. Martin County has formed an EDA to help attract industry. In its infancy, we’ve secured a grant to fund it for the next two years. We didn’t hire a director, but operate it out of the county coordinator’s office, and the board is made up of local business-oriented members.
Property taxes: A Fairmont School bond referendum of $8.5 million passed this fall, plus the School Board also has the authority to tack on another $13 million plus to fix maintenance problems. Doing our best to keep county taxes down, it’s tough when the two largest expenditures are the Highway Department and Law Enforcement, with Human Services close behind. We’re not getting the usual help from the state in any area. Also, the state has to be more equitable on property appraisals.
The Martin County Jail: The state is pushing us to upgrade and/or build a new jail. An architectural firm study, along with a citizens advisory group recommendation was to build a jail across the street for $23 million. This was unacceptably high for the board, so we’re looking at other options.

Gunther: Term limits for county commissioners. I don’t think this should be a second career. I would also like to see the county commissioners’ meeting televised so the voters can see how their representatives vote. The meeting agenda should be published in advance to allow people to express their opinions to their commissioner.
Another top issue is equalization on tax assessments. I believe there will be many issues including unfunded mandates that will be imposed on the county that will affect us all.
With a shrinking population in Martin County, we will face many challenges in the next few years. Our population is also aging and one of my most important goals is to keep spending in check to avoid budget increases year after year resulting in tax increases for all people, especially those on a fixed income.

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