Joe B. Lyman

Blanding City Council
I believe that public service should be just that, serving the public. Politics should merely be the process we use to determine what public policy will be.  
The political games of personal gain, bullying, power grabbing etc... should not be part of that process. I believe in limited government and expanded individual liberty and accountability.
I believe in pushing back against the ever growing beast of government at all levels. Possibly the best way to do this is to cut taxes and keep them as low as possible in order to keep the government beast lean and efficient, focused on only those vital and proper roles of government.
I believe that we should stand ready to compromise on preference but stand firm on principle. It is also true that at times people with differing principles will be in conflict in the political process.  
When this happens we should seek consensus, compromise or a synergistic win-win solution.  In case one or both parties chose to stand firm and not compromise
I believe that we can respect one another and disagree without being disagreeable.  I believe that each issue should stand on its own merits and not be influenced by the debate or outcome of any other issues. ‘You scratch my back and I will scratch yours’ is not good public policy.
I am able to serve with people of diverse opinions and backgrounds.  Diversity more often than not leads to better decisions.  I have sought out contrasting opinions to my own.  
I am pleased with the quality of candidates for Blanding City Council.   Given some experience and training the city could be well served by any three.  
However, experience only comes with time, and I already have the experience that will serve the city well.
I thank you for your vote.
Joe B Lyman