(6/2018) The 2018 Primary Election is nearly upon us. The months following the announcement of my candidacy for County Council District 5 have reinforced my belief in how fortunate we are as citizens to reside within the district. I have seen this first hand during my extensive door-to-door campaign.

The citizens of District 5 are engaged and interested in what is happening in their respective communities. This includes those residing within municipalities as well as the outlying rural areas of the district. Residential growth, traffic congestion, property rights, adequate and quality emergency services, our agricultural industry and small business opportunities are just a few of the many topics I've discussed with citizens, public safety officials, current and former elected officials and business owners.

From the beginning of my campaign, my top priority has been to meet, speak with and listen to as many of my fellow citizens throughout District 5 as possible. As a political candidate, I feel it is imperative to earn the trust, confidence and support of my fellow citizens in person, while explaining what my goals and priorities would be if elected. My campaign's message has been positive and consistent throughout.

I will work collaboratively with the other members of the County Council in a professional manner to be a true ?checks and balances? with the County Executive, advocating fiscally responsible budgets intended to spend each tax dollar efficiently, while providing the highest level of service to the citizens of Frederick County.

I am a strong supporter of property rights when they are in compliance with approved zoning ordinances and regulations. Proposals and legislation impacting property owners and private land should be clear and definitive in its intent and purpose when written and prior to its adoption. I will not support legislation containing ?open to interpretation? or ambiguous language which diminishes the property rights of our citizens.

I will seek to provide the necessary resources and adequate funding for all of our public safety agencies. This includes Fire and Rescue Services, Emergency Medical Services, the Office of Emergency Communications, Sheriff's Office and Detention Center. I believe public safety is one of the core responsibilities of County Government. Frederick County employs many hard working public safety professionals who are committed and focused on delivering efficient and quality emergency services while maintaining safe communities for all of our citizens.

I am not a career politician. My professional career has been dedicated to public service as a law enforcement officer for the past 23 years. During those years I have witnessed the benefits of elected officials working together and how their collaborative efforts benefit both citizens and the employees of a governmental unit.