The Garden City Telegram
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County seats
Published 7/29/2010 in Commentary : Editorial
Mayo's solid record worthy of support.
Finney County Commissioner Cliff Mayo has been thoughtful when issues have come before the county's governing body.
Unlike some elected officials, Mayo -- the board chairman who represents District 4 -- has weighed issues on their own merit, without simply dismissing anything that involves taxpayer dollars without due consideration.
He's not an irresponsible spender. Rather, Mayo knows it is necessary to invest in services and other improvements to maintain and improve local quality of life.
For example, he has been a supporter of needed economic development initiatives.
Mayo also had no trouble grasping the need for the county to share in the cost of a new animal shelter, something rated a high priority by citizens.
In 2008, Mayo even was the only commissioner to care enough about supporting the community's annual fireworks show with county dollars, when other commissioners chose not to help fund the patriotic display.
Above all, Mayo's invaluable experience in guiding the county through tough budgetary times is worthy of voters' consideration in the Aug. 3 Republican primary.
Surprisingly, though, Mayo is the only one of three commissioners up for re-election being challenged.
Commissioners Roman Halbur of District 1 and Larry Jones of District 5 are running unopposed. Unfortunately, no one stepped up to run and at least force those incumbents to address issues ranging from budget concerns to economic development.
Mayo's challengers include Jason Dougherty, a local business owner, and Harold Starr, a retired teacher who has run for elected office before, to no avail, but continues to air his concerns over local property valuations.
As for Dougherty, a newcomer to the political scene, his interest is both appreciated and refreshing at a time this region has far too many uncontested races. The hope is he maintains interest in local issues and positions himself for a future run at elected office.
With no Democratic hopefuls seeking any of the open positions, Halbur, Jones and the District 4 primary winner will take the county commission seats.
The primary winner should be Mayo, who has done a solid job for the county and deserves the support of voters in his district.
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