Perry County commission candidates focus on issues, not 'finger pointing'

Democratic candidate Marion Brown and Republican Jay Wengert don't have a bad thing to say about each other in their race for Perry County District 1 associate commissioner.

Brown, a farmer who worked for Mississippi Lime Co. at Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, for 43 years before retiring, doesn't think of himself as a politician.

"I am a Perry countian," he said.

Wengert, a self-employed commercial and residential contractor, said there has been "no finger pointing" in this race.

"I have known Marion all my life," he said.

Wengert has stressed the need for economic development.

"Economic development is one of the most important roles of the county commission and county government," he said.

"It is vitally important to ensure that all of our new and existing businesses and industry have an environment where they can grow and prosper," Wengert said.

He said employers have told him they struggle to find workers.

"I would like to work with other agencies and community leaders to create more housing opportunities and bring a vibrant work force to the area," Wengert said.

He added, "I am overwhelmed with the support I have gotten from business owners and community leaders."

Brown said the county commission must address its aging bridges.

"We need to start paying more attention to our bridges." Bridge failures hamper travel on county roads, he said. "If we haven't got them, we don't have a road."

Brown said, if elected, he would "work with the city and all parties involved, leaving politics out and just using good judgment."

Brown said it is important for the county commission to do "our homework" before making any decisions.

The Democratic candidate said he wants to spend tax dollars "in a conservative way."

He said the financial woes of the local recycling center are a concern for county government. He said he is aware the commission is looking to financially aid the local recycling center.

Wengert said it is important for the commission to make "the most efficient use of our resources," which includes maintaining some 500 miles of county roads and asphalt paving "what the budget allows."

Wengert praised the job that has been done by the current commissioners.

"I want to be part of keeping things going forward," Wengert said.

Both Wengert and Brown emphasized their business background: Brown in farming, and Wengert in construction.

Both candidates, who are seeking an open seat, said they simply want to help manage the county government and serve its residents.

The winner of the Nov. 8 election will replace incumbent Patrick Heaps, who is not seeking re-election.

mbliss@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3641

Pertinent address:

321 N. Main St., Perryville, Mo.