Sweeney: Remember issues, not negativity, in Levy Court campaign

It is disappointing when politics turn negative, especially during a campaign. I would rather talk about the issues with my opponent, especially those that are affecting our residents.

Issues like the recent growth of housing in our county, which will impact roads, schools, sewers and our emergency services. I voted to keep the adequate public facilities ordinances that offered another tool for Kent County to manage growth, but I lost that vote.

Issues like the recent reassessment, which has negatively impacted farmers, especially those in the Capital School District. I am working with state legislators to figure out options for farmers in future tax seasons to limit the impact.

Issues like economic growth to provide good-paying blue and white collar jobs to keep our kids here on the peninsula and in Kent County when they graduate high school or college. I support Linda Parkowski, director of the Kent County Economic Development Office and one of the most successful leaders of economic development we have ever had. Linda has attracted more manufacturing jobs to Kent County in the last 10 years than any other person in the last 30, with the new joint use agreement with Dover Air Force Base being one of the best actions in those 10 years.

Issues like poorly run homeowners associations, especially those still under the responsibility of developers. I work with homeowners to make sure their HOA boards are responsive and that developers take responsibility for tall grass in open space and open lots.

Issues like builders who will not honor their commitments to quality and build substandard homes that could be real trouble for homeowners in the future. I will ask the county inspectors to investigate construction problems for county violations, then go after builders who think they can avoid the problems.

Issues like expanding parks and recreation for everyone. As chair of the Community Services Committee, I have worked to bring more parks, the gym, lighted ballfields, expanded walking paths, a better county library, more municipal libraries and historical development to Kent County.

And, finally, issues like keeping your elected officials in charge of Kent County government and not consolidating power under one nonelected person. I oppose any changes to Kent County government that would limit commissioner authority and responsibility.

You have a choice in the Sept. 10 primary. Vote for the candidate who has lived here all his life, dedicated the last 16 years to making Kent County a better place to live and committed to helping anyone who asks for assistance.

George “Jody” Sweeney

5th District Kent County Levy Court commissioner

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.