My Dear Friends,
As many of you already know, I am asking to be your first directly elected MAYOR. I hold the view as most Americans, that government is important to our daily lives, but it cannot solve all of our problems. I also believe, that government must be run in an ethical, inclusive, professional, and truly open and transparent fashion. These four points may be inconvenient to some, but they underpin my commitment to you. We must demand that government become more efficient, fiscally accountable, and accessible to the people. No more secret compensation plans, backroom deals, or giveaways! My first goal upon being elected will be to lead the debate on council and in our city, for an open and inclusive process that will encourage a balanced "business like approach" that reflects the real needs, desires, and the dreams of our Suffolk residents and businesses. We are a city of over 430 square miles and our municipal government should enable our limitless spirit to succeed, not hinder it. I also want to assure all, that I will make it my personal mission to demand accountability for every tax dollar being spent in the names of the citizens. This last commitment is vital to me, as we all know that the city does not make money; it only spends the citizens’ taxes. Since 2005 the City budget has grown by over 50% and our population by only 1%…
With the support of my family, friends, and fellow citizens and my extensive business experience and study of government, I will campaign on the facts not guesses. With proven skills and experience, I do understand government and I am ready to go to work the very first day. I will diligently work for you to establish strong financial priorities that make efficient use of your taxes, while demanding that all those who work for the city meet the highest level of openness and accountability. In addition, I will demand that we work to improve and diversify our economic development efforts to widen our job inventory. In this regard, the focus of our EDA should change to focus on small businesses and entrepreneurial start-ups, as opposed to the large firms seeking handouts and subsidies. This change will maximize the number of new jobs and increase the benefits to our citizens, while reducing the tax burden upon all. To do this we must emphasize an educational system that prepares our students to excel and succeed in careers, rather than just shuffle though the school system. To this end, I pledge to work with all citizens to define real solutions to issues, rather than relying on deals made behind closed doors or just increasing taxes.
In closing, I would respectfully ask: Are you better off now than you were eight years ago, or even just a few years ago? While I strongly believe that government can’t solve all problems, we must set the bar higher by personal examples of leadership and accountability. Our City has limitless potential, significant land area, and the endless vision of our citizens. If I become your first directly elected Mayor, I assure you that I will reach out to all of our citizens as we move into the potential of this bright future. As Suffolk's first directly elected Mayor, I am committing myself to serve no more than two terms, if so honored by my fellow citizens. I am humbly requesting your financial and moral support in my efforts to serve as your next Mayor. I can be reached at 539-0600 regarding any of your thoughts on how you and I can work together to improve our City and community.
Humbly yours,
Roger A. Leonard
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment