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The views expressed on this page are soley
those of the author and do not
necessarily represent the views of County
News Online
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Elections are
about Choices
Mike Stegall
Elections are about choices. This election, in particular, is
about either moving forward on a path of stable growth in the economy,
in community improvement and in job creation or putting a halt to that
progress and choosing to make a blanket change based on reckless
election promises.
These past seven years, I have had to make some hard decisions.
Usually, those decisions involved money. Your money. My money. Our
Darke County money. These hard decisions were made with careful
consideration. Those decisions and their results are positively
impacting Darke County. I am proud to say that we have already
made significant progress since I was elected to serve in 2011.
The unemployment rate has decreased from 10.4% to around 4%. Job
growth has increased and over 2200 people have kept jobs or been put to
work. Our Partner investment of a little over $2.3 million has led to
Capital investment of over $267 million and we will add over $70
million just this year. We have secured over $35 million in State
and Federal funds to help with our growth. Midmark,
Whirlpool, BASF, Jafe Glass, GTI, Ramco motors, Integrity Ambulance and
others have all expanded their businesses or facilities.
The county’s debt continues to decrease. In 2013, Darke County’s
Bond Rating from Moody’s Investor service was A1, and now in 2018 that
rating has increased to Aa3! We are making steady progress!
The hard decisions we have made have led to the creation of policies
that may have seemed controversial, but are proving they were worth
making. Our policy decisions are working. Our entire team
of elected officials are proving that the course we have chosen as a
team is growing the county.
During my “Coffee with the Commissioner” meetings and maintaining an
open door policy with you, I’ve listened to you, the citizens of Darke
County, and I have heard your concerns. This is the time to speak the
truth. Let’s talk about actions, rather than perception.
Perception is often exaggerated from rumors which develop out of fear.
My opponent has said what he thinks will help the county, but has never
said HOW he would make those changes.
I just illustrated how the path we have set is working. I am
confident in the team we have, and that I can continue to help lead and
make decisions that deliver tangible benefits for Darke
County. Often times there are hard decisions that need to
be made. I want to stay positive in my thoughts of Darke County
and will always speak highly about our County. I am optimistic about
our future! We are moving in a positive direction! I also
know that tough times eventually will come. I want to stay with
and work with this fantastic group of people we have to help us through
the tough times. Please, when you go to the polls on May 8th, I
would appreciate your vote to maintain our consistent growth, and
progress.
Thank you all for allowing me to serve you!
Respectfully, Commissioner Mike Stegall
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