Among my core beliefs is that government is best that governs least. We need government to do just a few things and do them well. As the Ellis County Commissioner for Precinct 3, I would strive to have a lean, efficient county government.

Our county government should help to ensure justice through funding courts and certain law-enforcement duties, as required by state law. Through county government, we also fund roads and their maintenance. County government is and should be close to the people. As a county commissioner, I pledge to be:

* Open and actively listening to constituents

We take care of local problems in county government. One of the most important things we should do is communicate accurately with our residents in this county. If I am elected, everyone should feel comfortable contacting my office by phone or in person. But it is my wish that residents would never need to call me, because I plan to be out in the communities in this county. If elected, I propose holding quarterly meetings in all the major towns in this precinct. That means once or twice a month, I’ll be somewhere to listen to your concerns. You will know where I will be. I would keep these events, as well our county court’s agenda, well-publicized through a variety of outlets – the local papers, social media, websites. It is my intention that we have the opportunity for open and transparent county government.

* Against any tax increase

I try to be responsible with whatever God has blessed me with personally, and I will strive to be that much more responsible with the public’s money. I will not vote for a tax increase. More importantly, I will not vote for a budget that requires a tax increase. Your money should stay in your pocket and in your bank account. And I know that if I spend enough time in our communities, the citizens of this precinct can help me find ways to save money in county government. Having spent 29 years in the financial world and having served once before in elected office, I have a few ideas of my own.

* Ready to serve now, not forever

For too many, county office has become a career and not a position based on service. If you choose to elect me, I will voluntarily term-limit myself to two terms. I think it is important at every level of government that those who legislate ordinances, rules, and laws take a break from public office now and then and go and live as private citizens under the laws that they have passed, as most of the Founding Fathers of both this nation and this state envisioned. I simply desire to contribute my skills and experience gained as an investments manager, a former justice of the peace, and a mediator as your representative on the Ellis County Commissioners’ Court.

* A protector of your rights

Without property, free speech, and the right to defend your property, we ultimately have no freedoms. I will be dedicated to helping you preserve your rights. I am a taxpayer. My wife and I have been blessed with eight children and a new granddaughter. Like you, I understand that our most basic rights are being challenged in the current environment. Together, we can keep Ellis County a great place to own a home, raise your children, run a business, and keep your freedoms intact.

I humbly ask for your vote for Ellis County Commissioner, Precinct 3, in the upcoming runoff election on July 31.



Paul D. Perry