Over the course of my lifetime, I’ve come to realize our country (and county) is nearing a precipice caused by partisan politics, special interests and government officials who no longer serve “We, the People.” As a political independent, I would therefore need a very good reason to make me affiliate with one of the major parties again. But that’s exactly what happened recently. Here’s why.

Back in February, I attended an event at Mt. Haven and had the opportunity to listen to Steve Guccini and David Ruby discuss their vision for Pike County. I was impressed with the content of their presentation and their backgrounds, education and decades of public service in our community.

The event inspired me to change my voter registration to Democrat just so I can vote for Team Ruby/Guccini in the primary election on May 19. I do not write this letter as some KoolAid-drinking partisan, but as a pragmatic citizen who votes based on the qualifications, leadership and vision of the specific candidates.

How can you argue against holding commissioners’ meetings in locations around the county at more accessible times to increase citizen participation and attendance?

How can you argue against reviving a county recycling program with the benefits it will provide to our environment?

How can you argue against the need to address the heroin epidemic through early intervention, treatment, drug courts and a 21st-century focus on crime and restorative justice?

How can you argue against hiring county employees based on qualifications rather than party affiliation?

Having been a Pike County employee in the ’80s, it is clear to me that the establishment stronghold on local government has maintained the status quo rather than being proactive on the issues. Government officials have not adequately addressed the issues of transparency, the environment and especially the heroin epidemic and the collateral consequences of delinquency, crime and impact on the family.

Pike County is in dire need of a change in leadership, and I believe Team Ruby/Guccini will deliver.

Jack T. Donson

Dingmans Ferry, PA