The well documented roller coaster of the Butler County Commissioners office is finally ending its’ four year bumpy ride.

Incumbent Jim Eckstein was overwhelmingly voted out by the Democrats in the spring primary. Chairman William McCarrier is retiring and we wish him well. Dale Pinkerton decided to not seek another term.

That gives the county a unique opportunity as we elect three new commissioners — a new board with fresh leadership.

We must consider the importance of electing people with experience, knowledge of the county’s role, dedication to taxpayers, and maturity.

One candidate continues to stand out from the crowd.

On Nov. 3, I will cast a vote for Kimberly Geyer, a lifelong resident of our county.

Geyer is an outstanding candidate with a decades-long record of success in the private sector and public service. One only needs to review Geyer’s career and documented experience to see her exemplary involvement and knowledge. Most of that was done tirelessly, without pay.

Selfless and hard-working, Geyer will be a full-time commissioner who is already respected statewide. Geyer will not be afraid to make difficult decisions and will face every issue head-on to the benefit of all taxpayers.

Geyer has voiced priorities including a complete assessment of county facilities and programs, a new direction with efficiencies in county government, control county taxes, create a positive environment for business expansion and growth, help attract new jobs and provide new and respected leadership.

I reviewed the platforms of all candidates. I did see Kevin Boozel’s ongoing promises to expand social programs, provide taxpayer-funded housing with homeownership for those already receiving county assistance. Just more burdens placed on hard working county taxpayers already paying millions each year for a broken and wasteful welfare system. His promises clearly show Boozel has no understanding of the county’s role as outlined in the County Code of Pennsylvania. His campaign shows inexperience, self promotion and his strong desire to expand social services.

Remember, we are entrusting the new board with a budget in excess of $185 million and growing.

So, who do I think would comprise the best three-member board of commissioners?

At this time it would be Kimberly Geyer (R), Leslie Osche (R) and Jerry Johnston (D).

As taxpayers we should want the best of what we have to choose from. I believe this team could work together in harmony to set a new direction for the county after four long years of ongoing dysfunction, waste, inefficiency, discord and confusion.

Vote on Nov 3. Every vote does count.