Editor:

Sometimes, in the course of a political campaign, we forget what really matters.   We focus so much on our differences that we ignore what we have in common.

Every candidate running for County Commissioner wants what’s best for San Miguel County.  More jobs for our citizens, a budget with enough revenues to provide vital services and ensure public safety, and maintaining the natural beauty of our county that is the foundation for our quality of life.

All of the candidates for commissioner are good people.  This race is not about who is the best person.  It is about who is the best person for the job, given the current economic situation.

Different circumstances and situations require a different set of skills for any leadership position.  In this case, San Miguel County is facing a period of declining revenues, budget reductions, and an uncertain economic future.

We need a commissioner with real-world business experience.  Someone with the knowledge and common sense to guide San Miguel County through uncertain times.  With increased deficit spending, declining tax revenues, and the probability of significant budget cuts on the horizon, I believe my experience and knowledge make me the most qualified person to be the next commissioner in District 3.

We are four years into what some have deemed the worst economic situation since the Great Depression.  Why is it that county budget expenditures have remained the same for the past three years while budgeted revenues have significantly declined?  Why has the county just now formed a budget reduction committee so far into this financial crisis?

These are some of the hard questions that must be asked as we head into the future.  My experience with budgets, personnel, marketing, and economic development will allow me to make common sense decisions that will put San Miguel County on a solid footing.

We can’t control the national or state economy.  However, we can take our destiny into our own hands.  We can promote economic development to bring new businesses to the county.  We can create a culture of economic growth to diversify and balance our jobs base.

When filling out your ballots between now and November 6, I hope that you will consider which candidate brings the best skills and experience to the job of commissioner in today’s uncertain economic environment.  I believe I am that candidate and would appreciate your vote.

Sincerely,

– Kevin Kell, Candidate for County Commissioner District 3