What's All That JAZ?

Jon Albert Zudenbos, Republican candidate for County Commissioner in District 1, plans to oust incumbent Jeff Stabins. The laminated card, a political advertisement paid for and approved by none other than Mr. Zudenbos, informs the reader that his diverse experiences will “help make our beautiful Hernando County more vibrant than ever”.

The gentleman goes by the nickname “JAZ” and, according to the card, JAZ MEANS BUSINESS. The checkpoints are plainly expressed:

* Cut Spending 40% by holding Managers accountable
* Consolidate County Departments through streamlining
* Lower Property Taxes
* Attract Industry/Higher Paying Jobs
* Insure Smart Growth

Whoa! That last point caught my eye real quick. Smart Growth?

The first three checkpoints bordered on plagiarism since every other candidate has claimed the very same goals.

The fourth point, Attract Industry/Higher Paying Jobs, isn’t necessarily an original idea and would certainly be an achievement of monumental import if actually attained, but I need some more input before making final judgment. What, where and when are starters. From there, my interest could wane or gain.

Now, the statement Insure Smart Growth is an interesting prospect. Typically, when you insure something, there is a deductible to be met before the result can be implemented. Even then, there’s no assurance of a payout. The word insurance brings thoughts of mistrust. We homeowners have had too much monkey business from those uncaring insurance carriers.

I would rather JAZ assure us that, if elected, he would Ensure Smart Growth. It would portend to be a safer haven than taking on any type of risky business.

But, how do you guarantee Smart Growth? From whose intelligent design is this idea to be achieved? My expectations rely on words from JAZ that will provide specifics on not only achieving Smart Growth, but also the means to Attract Industry/Higher Paying Jobs. Someone has to do it. I would gladly be supportive of someone who can provide the ways and means of giving life to smart growth.

Lest I forget, the last point is:

* Listen to Citizens! They’re Customers!

That’s a good one! Customer Service should be #1 on any list.