Planning for a Better Lincoln County

Unfortunately, too many Lincoln County residents have lost confidence in their county government. Some believe that favoritism exists that results in some receiving jobs, water to their homes and businesses, and other benefits strictly because they are "connected" or do as they are told. Others have been alienated because of perceived legal violations, criminal prosecutions, and allegations of financial mismanagement. Therefore, a “Fresh Start” is needed which would include replacing some present office holders in an effort to unify our citizens and to restore confidence and integrity in our county government.

Problems and Solutions

There is a lack of adequate financial over site of our county’s finances. State audit findings and investigations have revealed problems such as:

I would propose that the Lincoln County Commission conduct an annual review of all State Audit Findings with the affected county officials. Explanations and plans to address the findings would be sought for each infraction with regular monitoring occurring to assure future compliance with all legal requirements.

Close monitoring and compliance of legal ad requirements, without unnecessary spending, would be enacted.

The development of a county policy on the contracting of services that would exceed state legal requirements would be used in an attempt to regain public confidence and exclude favoritism.

An ongoing review of county spending by the county commission involving ALL county commissioners would be started.

Water is not available to all county citizens and many believe that funds are not used in a fair manner.

Countywide water needs should be identified utilizing public input. A prioritization of needs would be developed in an attempt to assure that monies are used to address the greatest needs first. This would help to restore public confidence and help to assure that favoritism is not a factor in who gets water first.

Major efforts would be made to obtain grants and other means of financing water projects.

Lack of adequate economic development and jobs in Lincoln County.

Economic development would be actively pursued with potential businesses. The county web site and other methods of communication would be utilized in an effort to attract new businesses and jobs. Enticements might also be used when they are advantageous and economically feasible.

The perception of favoritism, nepotism, and cronyism in hiring practices and work paid for with county funds is common in Lincoln County.

A policy would be developed that would require public notice of all job openings and assure that all applicants are provided equal opportunities to obtain such job vacancies.

A county policy would be developed regarding the awarding of contracts and other county needs that would exceed state legal requirements in an attempt to regain public confidence and exclude any notion of favoritism.

The need to restore integrity and Lincoln County’s reputation

We’ve seen the effects in our school system when a state official demeans
us with his inappropriate comments. We are perceived in a negative manner way too much.

Past legal problems of some elected officials also must be overcome as we seek to regain the confidence of our citizens and others.

Questionable spending and financial mismanagement allegations also must be overcome if we hope to restore public confidence.

Elected officials must exercise extreme caution when presenting levies to the public. They should not add other projects at the risk of losing essential government services such as fire and ambulance funds.

County officials must work with the school board to assist in providing our children the best education possible.

We must work with the school board to help in uniting the county, and specifically address needs in Harts, where many feel disenfranchised or just plain left out. We must also help the school board to regain local control of our school system. 

I have the necessary experience to provide the leadership needed for Lincoln County to grow and prosper. I desperately want to improve our image and to see our county government serve our citizens the best it can. Let’s work together to restore credibility and unite all of our people for a better Lincoln County.   

Mud River Lake problems must be corrected.

Investigations and action must be taken regarding the Mud River Lake. The lake is now polluted, swimming is not permitted, and the fish are not to be eaten. It took 40 years for the lake to become a reality. It was intended to provide citizens with recreational activities close to home and to bring in visitors which would enhance the economy of Lincoln County. It is sad to say that our dream seems to be fading away and serious health concerns exist for visitors of the lake and all people living downstream. Action must be taken for safety, recreational, and economic reasons.