From the President

Congratulations to all of the re-elected and newly elected county officials. For many, this election was the largest and most challenging election we have ever witnessed at both a local and national level. The citizens of the United States have expressed their desire for change. I would like to challenge each and every elected official to take a look at your local county government and ask yourselves, “What changes can I make to positively impact my county?”
The economy is constantly fluctuating and challenging us as we conduct our day-to-day business. Budgets are becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and balance. During times like these we need to put our differences aside and work with our fellow officials to find solutions. If everyone is willing to do without one item or to save a little longer to complete a larger project, hundreds of thousands of dollars could be saved. After all, the taxpayer is the one who is truly impacted by the mismanagement of county funds. I would encourage everyone to remember the small business owners, the elderly, parents and their children. These are the people looking for change. We need to set standards that our children and grandchildren can follow.
As legislative sessions begin, we need to prepare ourselves for several very important issues concerning county government. Unfunded mandates, revenue caps, appraisal caps and water issues (just to name a few) will be main topics of concern.
In conjunction with the newly elected county officials, we also have newly elected state senators and state representatives. I encourage each of you to contact your senator and representative to stress the county’s stance on each of the aforementioned topics. We, the officers of the State and Regional County Judges and Commissioners Associations, depend on your input regarding your county’s concerns. Now more than ever is the time to get the public involved. Invite them to sit down with you and voice their concerns. Together, we can make a difference.
On behalf of the State Association officers, I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends and wish you a very Merry Christmas and blessed New Year.
Evan Gonzales