Bob Wolfe, District 5 cand., Republican

Name: Bob Wolfe
Address: 38 Eastridge Drive South, York, NE
Occupation: County Commissioner
Spouse: Verna Wolfe
Children: Cheryl, Kathy, Rob Jr.

Q: Why did you decide to run for this particular office?
A: I believe the taxpayers of York County deserve a strong and decisive voice, and I want to represent them in County Government. Devoting my time and talents as your county commissioner is my commitment to the York County voters.

Q: Have you ever held another public office, and if so, what was it?
A: The only public office I have held is the office of county commissioner for 16 years with dedication. County Government is the most active form of government in most citizens’ lives. Accessing the county government is easily done. Talking directly to county officials is one way to get problems solved quicker than waiting for state or federal officials to sort out everything. On a day-to-day basis, county, city and village government operations have a more personal and efficient impact on the lives of Nebraska citizens. I recommend all citizens to get involved and discuss problems with us.

Q: What in your background will benefit you in this capacity?
A: Being a county commissioner for 16 years and studying the issues every day has given me the experience to work closely with an open mind pertaining to all forms of government agencies whether it be city, village or state government.
I wrote the State Department of Roads about widening off ramps at Interstate 80 and Highway 81. I received a letter from Traffic Engineer, Randal Peters P.C. recommending to the District Engineer, V. C. McCann the following measures to improve traffic operations at the interstate. I quote, “Widening off-ramp approaches to provide separate turn lanes for left and right turning traffic at the signals is a necessity.” This project has been completed. This is how elective officials improve quality of county infrastructure, roads, bridges, etc.

Q: Work experience?
A: University of Nebraska, Omaha, graduate in business administration
B: Thirty-eight years as owner manager of retail business in York
C. Past adversary board member of National Retail Chain
D. Past director of Nebraska Art Guild
E. Past leader of York County 4-H Livestock Club
F. Past board member of York County 4-H committee

Q: Political experience?
A: I am knowledgeable of the issues involving county government, and I am prepared to address and make the necessary decisions to work towards successful compromises and workable solutions. County commissioners represent the county on many committees. I represent the county on 13 different groups, some of which are: City/County Landfill; Blue Valley Community Action; York County Economic Development; York County Board of Health Coalition; York County Housing Study; York Chamber of Commerce; Southeast County Development Corporation; Mosaic Advisory Board; Board of Equalization; York Visitors Committee; GIS Steering Committee; Four Corners Board of Health; and Crime Stoppers.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish if elected?
A: Every issue that comes before the board affects the taxpayer. As an elected official, I have the responsibility of representing the people. It is important that I receive the agenda for our meeting ahead of the actual meeting so I can research every item. This way I have a clear knowledge of the items. This is my commitment to you.

Q: What do you think are the primary issues facing this office?
A: We need to keep cost of government down. We need to reduce spending of non-essential items and consolidate services. I, along with the other commissioners, must see to it that the taxpayer gets full value for his tax dollars. There are necessary services that must be maintained while keeping, as a primary goal, the issue of cost-effective government.

Please rank the following issues by importance, with 1 being the most important — as it pertains to how you see priorities for the county:
Keeping a tight budget
Economic development
Maintenance of new construction of roads
Veterans affairs
Cooperation with city of York and other municipalities
Other
A: The above issues are number 1 in importance. Each issue is top priority when it is presented to the commissioners.