Bollinger County Presiding Commissioner candidate Travis Elfrink

__Name:__ Travis Elfrink

__Age:__ 29

__Place of birth:__ Cape Girardeau

__Occupation:__ Presiding Commissioner

__Education:__

Graduated from Woodland High School in 2003

Graduated SEMO in 2008 with a BS in Mathematics and a minor in Business Administration

__Employer:__ Bollinger Counuty

__Businesses owned, all or part:__ None

__Public offices held or sought:__ Presiding Commissioner since 2010

__How should Bollinger County prioritize how county roads are maintained?:__

With over 500 miles of county roads, it is hard to determine which road is more important. However, I think it should be by medical necessity, bus routes, most traveled and most populated. It is hard for residents to understand that their road cannot always be the first priority.

__In what ways would you be willing to join with neighboring counties to work toward regional economic development to bring jobs and infrastructure to the area?:__

I currently attend monthly meetings with the SEMO Regional Planning Commission for economic development. I am all for anything that would bring industry to our area. I work diligently with surrounding area counties exploring ideas that would in any way help to benefit Bollinger County. Many times the parameters given by the industries cannot be met by Bollinger County.

__How can tourism be developed into a revenue-producing industry in Bollinger County?:__

We need to promote what we are known for and can do well. It is hard to beat the hunting, fishing, camping and outdoor recreational activities that Bollinger County already offers. All of these activities need to be supported by advertisement and local participation. In addition the museum is a wonderful place for families, especially children. We need bedroom facilities, bed & breakfast or a mini hotel for out of town visitors.

__In your opinion, what can you bring to the table to improve Bollinger County?:__

Genuine concern is the best thing I can bring to the table. I have it. The next thing we need desperately are others who genuinely care and spend their money at home as much as possible. If we could find investors with deep pockets it would also help. The Bollinger County people do not need any more taxes but it may take that in the future.