Myers can chart a positive course of action for the region

To the Editor;

Voters in District 2 (Dover-Foxcroft, Sebec, Medford and Bowerbank, and the Unorganized Territories of Atkinson and Orneville) face a clear choice when electing their next Piscataquis County commissioner on Nov. 3.

As someone who held that commissioner’s seat for nine years, and served another five years as county manager, I know how important it is to elect someone who can chart a positive course of action for our region. That is why I am endorsing Patrick Myers of Sebec.

Although commissioners run on a partisan basis, this is not a political seat to be filled by an ideologue of any party. Commissioners are responsible for fiscal operations and policy decisions affecting county government, and serve as municipal officials for the Unorganized Territory. The political views candidates bring to the position are largely irrelevant. What is relevant is whether candidates have management and budgeting experience, along with sound judgment. Candidates should also be collaborative, since commissioners have no authority to act in an individual capacity, and only decisions made as a three-member board are valid.

Having known Patrick Myers for nearly 20 years, and observed his work at the Piscataquis Regional YMCA and in his current job as executive director for the Center Theatre in Dover-Foxcroft, I know his motivation to seek public office is a continuation of his long standing desire to serve this community. His commitment to Piscataquis County has been amply demonstrated over many years and is part of his lifestyle, not political posturing.

Myers has earned a solid reputation for his calm, rational approach to building relationships throughout the county, and for getting things done. He is energetic, thoughtful, smart, creative and kind — exactly the attributes we need in the public arena during this time of national discord.

Tom Lizotte

Dover-Foxcroft