What I Believe . . .

I Believe . . . 

1. That government institutions like the New Harmony Town Council are driven by laws and ordinances not individual desires and whims. Ordinances provide the foundation for sound government. We are a nation (and a town) of laws, not individual decision makers. 

2. That when in doubt, it is better to not regulate our citizens than it is regulate them. Individual freedoms are a foundation of our country. Said another way, if a problem does not exist, or if an issue occurs so infrequently and that it causes little harm, it is best when the government allows its citizens the individual right to decide what to do with their lives. That being said, there are times when it is necessary for laws and ordinances to regulate the collective good will of everyone. The role of elected officials is to balance those two ideas.

3. In fiscal responsibility. We cannot spend money that we do not have. Raising our taxes should only be done only after fiscal prudence and responsibility makes it necessary. At the same time, public funds should be prudently invested and managed until they need to be used. Setting on cash is not a good use of taxpayer monies.

4. That Economic Development is key to the survival and sustainability of towns. It provides benefit to all citizens by creating a place where people want to live. Municipalities are funded (primarily) via property taxes. Strong economic development maintains or increases property values and tax revenue that sustains that continued growth. Without a strong and growing economic foundation, services cannot be sustained.

5. That there is strength in public involvement. The more citizens are involved and aware of initiatives the better, and the more diverse the backgrounds and experiences providing input, the better. That cohesion requires leadership. Leadership matters.

6. There is enormous benefit in understanding and respecting “how things have always been done”. There is equal benefit in a vision of how things can be done better.