Candidate questionnaire: Charlie Herbst

NAME: Charlie Herbst

AGE: 49

PLACE OF BIRTH: Cape Girardeau

SPOUSE, CHILDREN'S NAMES:

Sydney (spouse), Erin, Allyson, Taylor, Travis, Claire

OCCUPATION: Sales

EDUCATION:

Cape Central High School, Southeast MO State University, SEMO Law Enforcement Academy

EMPLOYER:

Innovative Idea Integration, LLC

BUSINESSES OWNED, ALL OR PART: n/a

PUBLIC OFFICES HELD OR SOUGHT; GIVE DATES:

Cape Girardeau City Council, 2002-2006, 2006-2010

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CHALLENGES FACING CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY?

Economic Development recruitment and retention is a constant challenge. Infrastructure improvements that include sewer & water, road surfacing that will continue to attract residents and businesses to the county. Slow tax rate growth is a challenge as costs continue to rise. Ability to offer appropriate & reasonable pay to retain and recruit quality employees (i.e. health benefits, market rate pay, retirement benefits).

HOW WOULD YOU ENSURE THE COUNTY STAYS FISCALLY STABLE?

Closely work with other county office holders to insure that we are taking advantage of all technology that is feasible to provide current and future services at lower costs. Work with the Chamber of Commerce, Magnet, and other economic organizations to continue to assist employers & business owners with any approriate business incentives or tools that may be available to increase sales and profits.

CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY RECENTLY LOST A BUSINESS TO A NEIGHBORING COUNTY BECAUSE THAT BUSINESS SAID IT COULDN'T FIND ENOUGH LAND HERE. WHAT CAN THE COUNTY DO TO ENSURE WE CAN ACCOMMODATE INDUSTRY ALREADY HERE, AND THOSE CONSIDERING COMING HERE?

The county and larger municipalities must partner in an effort to recruit, retain, and expand business in the county. Combining forces can be a catalyst in applying for bonds, loans, and incentives that may be available on a state or federal level. The recent I-55/102 interchange is an example of such an intiative. Partnering with major stakeholders and property owners in the county is vital to the process.

CLOSING REMARKS:

As a lifelong resident of Cape Girardeau County, I have seen the county grow to become a hub for the region that includes education, health, and commerce. My experience serving on the Cape Girardeau City Council provides a firm foundation for understanding governmental processes. I have pride in my skills of problem solving and conflict resolution to promote progress in our community. I will be proud to serve the citizens as 2nd District Commissioner.