I have the privilege of knowing both County Commissioner candidates, Bob Conley and Jon Fussle, I like them both very much, and I consider them both my friend. I have known commissioner Conley for almost 40 years and Jon for the past two to three years. It is because that I like both of these individuals that I have had to struggle with my decision to write this letter.
Bob Conley has been an excellent County Commissioner. He and the other current Commissioners have guided this county with conservative leadership, adhering to their budget restraints in a very tough economy. Among many other items, maybe the most important to many of us, is properly maintaining the over 1,000 miles of county roads.
Commissioner Conley and his wife of 38 years are local property taxpayers. Their oldest son Nathan, is about the same age as Jon Fussle. Bob is a longtime barber and owns two shops in our county.
Bob has been a responsible Kosciusko County citizen for many years. I asked both candidates at the recent public debate, two questions. If they were homeowners, and if they were accepting donations from individuals to help finance their campaigns. As a Commissioner candidate myself in 1972, I know these are concerns of the electorate.
I find that Jon, not being a homeowner, therefore, not paying property taxes, problematic. Jon also said that he was soliciting, and accepting campaign donations. Commissioner Conley said that he was financing his own campaign. Although I am not suggesting that Jon's financial supporters would be seeking "favors", I find Bob's position most favorable, as he will not be "obligated" to anyone.
When I ran for County Commissioner, I was too young and immature. I too, tried to unseat an incumbent that was a very good commissioner, my motives were selfish. Justifiably, I got beat. I asked Jon why he was running against Commissioner Conley. He told me that he wanted to be a Commissioner and Bob lived in his district. My reasons were the same.
Politics are tough and Jon is aware of my position. He knows he is my second choice for County Commissioner. If my fellow Republicans should happen to select him in the May 4 primary, I will support him this fall.
However, I urge you to follow me and support the best and most qualified candidate for County commissioner and help me re-elect Commissioner Robert "Bob" Conley.
