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The Lane Report

Ed Lane - on the Issues

A New Direction for Local Government

"Fayette County is one of Kentucky's most affluent communities, yet local government has failed to pay our public safety employees competitive wages, to save any significant money in our "rainy day" fund, or to open some of our swimming pools this summer.   Why is local government so broke?   The Urban County Government has been a poor steward of the taxpayer's money.

It's time for a new direction on the Urban County Council.   By electing council members who carefully spend local tax dollars and eliminate waste, local government can be a positive influence on Lexington's economy and quality of life.  

As a local business owner, taxpayer, and a long-term resident of Fayette County, I will work hard when elected to make the Urban County Government more responsive, efficient, and better managed."

Investing Our Taxes

"It's your money, not the government's money.   Over the last decade, Fayette County's general fund has increased 66 percent - from $132 million to $219 million.   We need to eliminate waste, improve productivity, and manage the city's budget using sound business principles.   With a growing tax base and better fiscal management, new taxes should not be necessary."

Public Safety

"Public safety should be the top priority of local government.   All of us deserve safe neighborhoods and a prompt response to our homes, farms and businesses in an emergency.  

Lexington needs to pay our public safety employees the salary they deserve - one that is competitive with surrounding cities.   Lexington can afford nothing less."

Smaller Government

"Before trying to condemn, take-over, and operate well-run utility companies like Kentucky-American Water Company, the Urban County Government should demonstrate its ability to effectively manage our storm drainage, sanitary sewers, bus transportation, and public safety services.   Smaller government is better government."

Prosperity & Education

"Fayette County has the best educated workforce in Kentucky.   Our schools need to provide exceptional educational opportunities for everyone.   If our educational systems thrive, so will our city.   An educated workforce is the infrastructure of the new economy."

Economic Development

"We need to maintain Fayette County's horse farms and agri-businesses as a vital part of Lexington's economy.

Local government needs to work as a strategic partner with Commerce Lexington to promote economic development.   A strong emphasis should be placed on creating jobs in technology, research, agri-business and innovation.

New jobs expand the local tax base and provide employment opportunities for our citizens and children."

Planning

"Our local government must invest and plan for the future - while at the same time - protect our exceptional quality of life."

“I want to conservatively spend our tax dollars, eliminate waste, and bring sound business ideas to local government.”

To contact Ed Lane's 12th district council offices, e-mail him at edlane@lfucg.com.