Profile: Rick Aufdenberg, Cape Girardeau County 1st District Commissioner (R)

Name: Rick Aufdenberg

Date of birth: June 22, 1958

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau

Spouse: Renee'

Children's names, ages: Brent, 26; Cory, 25; Todd, 17.

Occupation: Transportation, farmer

Employer: Drury Hotels, self

Businesses owned, all or in part: Rick Aufdenberg Farms; Renee's child care; Earl Aufdenberg Farms LP

Public offices held (elective or appointive): None

Past political campaigns including year and office sought: None

1. Evaluate the progress of the county road improvement program. Has it met the expectations of voters who approved the sales tax in August 2006? If not, why not?

Answer: The progress of the county road improvement program has not met expectations of voters. Easements seem difficult to obtain and, once obtained, preparation was slow. County crews should take care of existing roads and let blacktop preparation to outside contractors. Deadlines should be set and met. The advisory committee is a definite asset. They serve quietly while doing a great deal of work.

2. Should the county commission enact the storm-water control ordinance that has been under consideration for the past several years? If yes, how should it be enforced? If no, are you opposed because of particular provisions in the ordinance or because of a philosophical opposition?

Answer: Part of my campaign includes the need for subdivision guidelines, especially in storm-water retention as we see downstream flooding getting worse in our parks, towns and farms as well as street design and construction and utilities. Industrial water retention is also needed; however, they are doing fairly well themselves.

3. Should county commission meetings be broadcast on the Web or on public access cable TV? Explain.

Answer: I am in favor of webcasting meetings. First we should see the costs and extent of production. One wide lens camera, or multiple alternating cameras, with crew. I also favor monthly evening meetings for access of daytime workers.

4. How do you feel about the city of Cape Girardeau's discussions of peripheral zoning?

Answer: I am opposed to county zoning that should be left to incorporated municipalities. Zoning can give residents a false sense of security, as the zoning board can issue a variance, sometimes without a hearing. With zoning you could not bury a family pet unless zoned as a cemetery or have a small backyard ball field or soccer field unless properly zoned. We need less government intrusion, not more.

5. What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Answer: Integrity, full-time to answer county needs promptly whether it is 3 a.m., 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. Most issues do not occur after 5 p.m. or before 8 a.m. when you are off work from another job. In-depth knowledge of county roads, machinery and business. I have received national, state and local recognitions. Citizens routinely seek my opinion on various issues concerning finance, business and life. Projects are completed on time without delay, extension or excuses.