First published in The Manhattan Mercury

Strawn will look out for the best interests of the city's residents

To the Editor:

I am in support of Bob Strawn for city commissioner, and here is why. He is a veteran, and knows the needs of the soldiers coming into the area. While we need improved infrastructure to handle the influx of increased population, the commissioners continue to push their pet projects such as the indoor swimming complex and Dial-Dial-Dial.

Bob Strawn knows that the best way for a city to manage its budget is to control spending, not to increase taxation to fund extravagant spending binges. They say that we have not seen an increase in taxes; have you checked your recent property valuation notice? Unless my appeal is upheld, my property taxes went up by 25 percent, in the past year! At that rate, the commissioners will send retired seniors elsewhere in droves, as we will no longer be able to afford to live in Manhattan.

We need responsive representation that will address the real issues of Manhattan. Yes, we need to grow, but with a plan. I am not sure that the current commissioners have a clue, let alone a plan.

Bob will address the real needs of Manhattan and has the ability to properly prioritize projects for the betterment of our community, while looking out for the best interests of the citizens of Manhattan.

Leland E. Fager

2107 Snowbird Drive