Candidate Statement - Cary Kelly
Running for Bonner County Commissioner, 3rd District (Rep.)
My opponent in the general election is the incumbent I defeated in the primary election, who is now running as a write-in candidate. The discord in county government, which existed last May, has only gotten worse in recent months. It is unproductive, time consuming, unnecessary, and has the potential to become very expensive. It has led to a breakdown of communications and coordination, as well as creating an unhealthy work environment and low morale. My opponent has been unable to work together with the other elected officials to bring about reconciliation.
In my opinion, this is a leadership issue. The first task is to build consensus for common goals — for example, to provide better service to the county. To start this process, I would have a one-on-one meeting with each elected official to discuss his/her statutory requirements, near term and long-range goals, and what obstacles are ahead. Most importantly, I would ask each one what I could do as commissioner to assist in attaining those goals. I would assure them that they are essential, appreciated, and have my full support. It will take time to build up trust and credibility by my actions and decisions, but it will happen.
- Courtesy River Journal