Questions during the Athens County Commissioner debate focused on budget concerns and job opportunities last night at the Athens Public Library, 30 Home St.
Incumbent candidate Bill Theisen, Democrat, and opponents Steven McVey, Republican, Fred W. Weber and Kenneth Willie, both Independent, were questioned by a panel of four media representatives and a community representative during the 90-minute debate.
When asked about budget priorities, all the candidates agreed that essential county services must receive necessary funding.
McVey said that once essential offices such as emergency response are properly funded, he would look to organizations like Community Action for ways to cut excess spending.
Weber agreed.
Essential county services need to be continued
he said. Otherwise we really don't have a government. I think good planning and vision is how to deal with the budget.
Willie had strong criticism on the topic.
County budget is a big thing to me he said. It's my biggest beef with this county government. I have nothing against non-profits but we should not be handing money to them like candy. They should bring programs to the city.
While the other candidates stated that budget concerns and economic development were their top priorities, Theisen touted his record on budget issues and said that safety, health and quality of life were his main concerns.
I've been down in the trenches
he said. I did battles. All 12 years I balanced the budget without cutting services.
Another issue discussed at length was economic development.
The candidates generally agreed that the answer to this problem comes from helping to expand locally owned businesses and companies, though they each had different ideas about how to accomplish the goal.
Theisen said the Specialty Books building, 6000 Posten Station Rd., is an example of a local business that provided a number of good jobs.
There are 75 to 85 people working at Specialty Books
he said. We've had success in that building.
Weber said he would rely on a system of retention and expansion within existing businesses.
We need to match the needs with state
local and federal resources
he said. We need to build jobs and create prosperity one job at a time.
Willie suggested using the Athens County Web site (http://www.athensohio.com) as a resource for promoting local businesses and resources.
McVey said that he would try to attract businesses and manufacturers to the county.
Jobs would be my top priority
he said. There are competent people here who need work.
With four candidates, there is a great deal of diversity of ideas for improvement and qualifications.
McVey said one quality of an effective leader is good communication with other office holders.
I'm not a politician
he said. People looking for the status quo will have to look elsewhere. I bring a different perspective and I would enjoy the chance to serve up front
honestly and openly.
Willie said the key to good leadership is respecting the voters -both supporters and opponents -as well as hiring efficient assistants to help with communications with constituents.
I have not campaigned at all
he said. I was going to drop out
