Candidate: PAIGE RAUSCH

As someone who was born and grew up in Lee County, I have unique perspective of the county\'s history, what we\'ve done right, and what we haven\'t done so well. I have a commitment to keep the character of the community I love intact while working hard to meet the needs of the residents who each make this county a great place to call home. I wholeheartedly support protecting the environment. Our Conservation Lands need to be properly maintained not only for future generations to enjoy, but for the health of our waterways -- the corner stone of our economy and growth. The funds that have been dedicated for the purchase and care of these lands must to be utilized for this purpose. Lee County needs balanced growth - not sprawl and growth at any price. Our community planning and the heavy investment in improving the Lee Comprehensive Plan can no longer be ignored. As a business person, I know when Government helps and when it hurts business, when infrastructure and regulations help, and when costs and red tape hurt. Besides guiding wise investments, the best role for a Commissioner is to listen to the needs of the residents, to have transparency in the actions of the county, and to ensure the County staff follows the Commission direction. ​ Too often we have reacted to circumstances, rather than making prudent choices at the onset. Too often we claim to be doing one thing, and in actuality doing another. We have strayed from the principals and visions that have served us well -- I will do everything possible to protect our quality of life, which includes our environment, our community\'s rich history, and our culture of volunteerism for making life better not just for us today, but for generations to come. ​ ​It would be an honor to serve the people of Lee County and together we\'ll get back on the \"Right Paige\"!