__Name:__ Travis Elfrink
__Age:__ 30
__Place of birth:__ Cape Girardeau
__Education:__
Graduated from Woodland R-4 in 2003
Graduated from SEMO in 2008 with a BS in Mathematics and a minor in Business Administration
__Occupation:__ Presiding Commissioner
__Employer:__ Bollinger County
__Businesses owned, all or part:__ None
__Public offices held or sought; give dates:__ Presiding Commissioner 2011 to present
__Email:__ tmelfrink@hotmail.com
__Phone:__ (573)238-3081
__Do you foresee the subject of the Bollinger County Library building and tax base coming up again? Why or why not?:__
I do foresee the library tax coming up again if the citizens follow proper procedure in registering the petitions and obtaining signatures. A new library building most likely will be brought up again but I feel like after having two elections, the citizens have made it clear they do not want one.
__Social media such as Facebook took on the issues of the library and better county roads. How can the county commission make the best use of this form of communication?:__
The county commission can monitor what people say about both issues on social media. When photos are posted showing a specific issue it aids in understanding the situation instead of just being described. Social media allows citizens who work during the hours commissioners meet a method of making them aware of any issues they may have.
__Would you consider having periodic evening meetings for an hour or so to accommodate those who can't attend regular meetings on Monday mornings?:__
As an individual commissioner I would be willing to meet in the evening to accommodate those who cannot attend the meetings on Mondays. This is how social media can help with individuals who cannot make the regular meeting.
__What is the most realistic solution to better roads in Bollinger County?:__
It is a money issue. Everyone knows from their own household how much the cost of supplies, gas, maintenance, etc. has gone up over the years. This is a big problem for our road and bridge department because the cost of these things have went up without any increases of money to maintain roads with. The most realistic solution to this problem is a tax specifically for road and bridge.
__Under what circumstances would you consider asking the public to raise a tax rate?:__
I would never ask for a tax rate increase unless I felt it was necessary. I cannot control the constant increase in the cost of supplies, the weather, and the deterioration of present facilities. I currently see the need for a tax increase at this time. The citizens would have to see the same need as it would be up to them to increase the tax rate.
__Closing remarks:__
I realize there have been several big issues brought forth during my term and I have not taken them lightly. I have spent countless hours researching and acquiring knowledge to address each issue the county has faced. By attending meetings and making myself available to various organizations, I have been able to access grants and other projects that have benefited the county. It has been a privilege and blessing serving Bollinger County.
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