Editorial from Frank Durant

Each of the 20 cities and town in Bristol County pay a county tax twice a year.  Along with State funding, and revenue from our Register of Deeds and County Courts, the majority of funding falls on the backs of the tax payers.

We need to look into other ways of funding outside of taxes.  For example, we currently have rental space available in several properties that remain vacant. We should rent out these space to area non profit groups and organizations that are involved in our communities. Several 501C3's in the area are currently looking for space and are willing to invest in county government
Also, our County owned printing press needs to be better marketed. If done right, it could offer printing services to all 20 municipalities as well as area for profit businesses. We need to start promoting better and in doing such be able to offer a service that can generate revenue.

Investments in solar power energy has been considered throughout the last 20 years without any conclusion. With multiple county owned and operated buildings, the investment in adding solar power panels as well as a solar power field is a realistic opportunity the county should embrace.

Finally, the salary of a Bristol County Commission needs to be taken into question. The main duties of a County Commissioner averages to less than 6 hours a month. The current salary of a Bristol County Commissioner is over $35,000 a year.

If elected, I will eliminate my salary and invest those funds back into the County Commission. These funds will go to updating all our websites, adding social media and video capabilities so we can start recording our meetings for the public. We will better all areas of communication as well as looking at new ways of funding our County Government.

This September 4th, I ask for your vote so I can serve you as your next County Commissioner.

Thank you,
Frank Durant
Candidate for Bristol County Commissioner