Candidate questionnaire: Pat Wissman

Candidate Name: Pat Wissman

Party: Democratic

Age: 53

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau

Spouse: Brenda

Children:

Occupation: Retired

Education: High School

Employer: Retired

Businesses owned, all or part: None

Previous offices held/sought: District 1 Commissioner, 2008; Jackson Board of Education, Cape Special Road District board of directors, 2009.

Question 1: Do you support the county changing to a charter form of government? Why or why not?

Answer: No, not at this time. I believe we don't need more government but better government, which can be accomplished by civil servants that serve the people and not special groups of interest or commissioners own hidden agendas.

Question 2: What are the major challenges facing Cape Girardeau County?

Answer: Each person has their own opinion of what is major. The scope of challenges ranges from the commission working as a single unit, putting personal goals aside and working for the betterment of the county. Replace lost jobs in retail and industry. Lack of needed equipment for our fire districts and emergency responders. Subdivision regulations. Storm water run off. Affordable medical and dental care to county residents that have none.

Question 3: Cape Girardeau County has escaped the worst impacts of the recession, With revenue about stable. How would you help make sure the county budget is fiscally stable in 2011.

Answer: Use video conferencing or teleconferencing when possible. Review operating budgets in all departments quarterly. Lease equipment versus purchasing if it is more cost efficient. Make our county more eco-friendly. To promote our county for industrial, retail and tourism growth which means jobs, which equals revenue.

Question 4: What changes would you make in the way commission meetings are conducted or the way the county operates?

Answer: Evening meetings will be held to allow residents to provide input on issues before voting. Broadcast all open meetings. Conduct meetings as a business with order and not to vent for personal use or gain. Allow all residents to voice their opinion on agenda items and those not on the agenda. Implement a checks and balance system in the boards in which the commission appoints members, with monthly reports to the commission.

Closing remarks: If elected I would hold town meetings throughout the county on a regular basis to get valuable input from you the voters. I will be open to new ideas and suggestions for county improvement and growth. I will be a full-time commissioner with regular office hours with after hour appointments as needed.