LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Holland, Woodard have helped Florence improve

By: Dear Editor: | SCNow
Published: June 08, 2008

Why make a change when things are going so well?

Several recent letters to the editors regarding the election of city council members have overlooked some important facts.

The letters of support for the newcomers running for city council have been informative, but we must not overlook the successes Florence has had under the leadership of the existing council members Rick Woodard and Bobby Holland. Let us not forget where Florence was 14 years ago and what has been accomplished under their leadership for the past 13 years balancing the municipal budget every one of those years and eliminating city real estate property taxes amounting to $62 million in tax relief to the citizens of our city. That’s a very impressive record that needs to continue.

Let us also remember that we now are enjoying walking and biking trails and other wonderful amenities like the recently dedicated Stockade Trail and Park and the soon-to-be dedicated Veterans Park all accomplished with their support without any tax increases.

Rick Woodard lives, pays taxes and owns real estate in Florence along with other parcels of real estate in other areas. His insurance business is licensed, registered and operates out of Florence. As Rick’s accountant, I can vouch that most of his business and interactions are in Florence requiring his constant presence here in the city.

As a fellow Rotarian, I also would like to point out that he was elected as next year’s president of our Florence Breakfast Rotary Club, which speaks of our confidence in his leadership and his availability to direct our efforts to serve the community.

Rick Woodard and Bobby Holland are effective public servants and are getting things done. These two men have extensive experience and training in government operations and a proven track record on responsible fiscal policies that are making our city a better place to live.

When re-elected, they will continue to stand for those policies and use the wisdom gained from that valuable experience to meet the challenges that lie ahead.

I recommend a vote for experience and proven leadership on June 10. We are on the right track, and Rick Woodard and Bobby Holland are the right choices.

Nancy Waring
Florence