I practiced law for over 30 years as a partner in a large national law firm, specializing in environmental and administrative law and representing businesses and local governments.  In addition to my technical and legal expertise I founded and headed my firm’s Environmental Practice Group, which became a profitable part of the firm’s operations.  I understand business practices and concerns, including predictable, cost-effective and fair governmental practices.  I have extensive experience with complex contract problems and laws and ordinances.  I’ll actually read what I’m asked to approve or reject.

One of the issues voters are most concerned about is fiscal responsibility.  Overspending and over commitments have landed the County in a serious financial position.  I have attended the County’s citizen group meetings reviewing the County budget, I’ve studied the budget itself, and I’ve read and reviewed important underlying documents such as the Murdock Village Disposition Agreement.  I’m best prepared to deal knowledgeably and fairly with the tough decisions that must be made, and I recognize that the best way to persuade citizens to trust their government is to be fair and frugal with the public’s money and protective of its resources, natural, financial and human. 

Charlotte County must also aggressively create a more diversified economic base.  The County’s past efforts in this direction have lacked commitment and have been counter-productive, and the painful consequences are obvious.  Much more could be done, including a more sophisticated marketing effort.  As an environmental lawyer, for example, I understand that the range of industry which might suit the County is much broader than is currently recognized.  Much modern industry is "clean" or "green" and I have the expertise to help guide a more effective search for that new business.