To the Editor:

It has become so tiresome. Every Republican candidate is singing the same song. Blaming Democrats for the County's fiscal problems and pointing to the much heralded $22 million fund balance supposedly flushed away by wild spending.

Not so! First of all, that $22 million was accumulated by the Republican controlled legislature overtaxing our citizens for years. Then two things happened - the perfect storm - the stock market collapse and a major recession began in 2008; one which is ongoing today.

In order to provide relief for our taxpayers and maintain as much of the services our people need, we (both Republicans and Democrats) used the excessive built up fund balance to cover positions and become more efficient.

In more recent times, however, the same Republican criticizing "spendthrift" colleagues was the one member of the legislature, I came to think of as Mr. Negative. He rejected the attempts to solve problems but did not once offer any problem-solving solutions through a resolution of his own. A truly responsible person would at least try to put forward concrete workable ideas.

His letter chastising Jason Clark for making the attempt to communicate with the public and detailing certain issues is full of negativity and exaggeration. Jason Clark has worked hard to learn about his constituents needs and to participate in making this county a better place to live. He has proven himself over the last year and deserves our support.

I also read with interest the letter from Mr. Timmerman extolling the virtues of the fiscal responsibility of Mr. Turbett. As a fellow professorial colleague, I understand his support of his friend. As far as Pat Turbett being a fiscal guru, I disagree respectfully.

Anyone can look good when things are going well. No one could have foreseen the 2008 collapse of our economy and it's long-term effects upon our status. Realistically to operate efficiently, all must pull together to keep the ship from sinking. It simply was not happening under his leadership. Having served with both Mr. Turbett and Mr. Bunstone, I understand clearly why we, as Democrats, supported Mr. Bunstone over Mr. Turbett. Mr. Turbett's leadership style was often abrasive causing disruption within the legislative chamber rather than cooperation.

It was for this reason and this reason alone that the party leaders felt it was necessary to look for a reasonable, intelligent, and responsible alternative. Jim Bunstone was approached because he believed in the Democratic values regardless of registration. He took up the challenge and successfully became the candidate on the Democratic line. He is a Democrat and is supported by the party due to his strong belief in this county and its people. Jim's service has been invaluable; serving willingly as Chair of the Services Committee, on the county's Board of Health as well as other ad hoc committees.

I certainly relied upon him for a practical, balanced, thoughtful and business-oriented perspective. It is in the county’s best interest to continue supporting Jim Bunstone for the Board of Legislators.

Sallie Brothers

Norfolk