Parma supervisor runs unopposed

Rick Lemcke has served on the Parma town board for seven terms, a total of 14 years, as its supervisor.

"The reason I'm seeking re-election is now, more than ever, government needs to run a tight ship," he said. "It's easy to govern during good times, but I'm prepared to plan a course of action to guide through tough times."

Parma, Lemcke said, has been debt free for some time.

"We have a 'savings account' so we can pay cash for necessary expenses without raising taxes," he explained. "Our town park is second to none and our library continues to change to meet the needs of the community."

Lemcke said when he first became supervisor he would always use the phrase "do more with less" and that has been a philosophy he has carried through his tenure.

"I believe now is the time we have to do more with less because government, by nature, can create more problems than it solves," he said. "I believe it's time to provide only those needed services and have the strength to oppose those who think government must continue to provide more and more services."

Planned development and smart growth are terms used by many to confuse people, Lemcke said.

"To the person, people in Parma want to maintain our rural community," he said. "We should only encourage development in those areas that can support growth. I'm proud of the fact that together we have created a community that everyone wants to move to but they want to be the last person who moves in."

Being self employed, Lemcke said, has provided him with a unique perspective that town government should be run like a business.

"My political experience helps me choose what battles are worth fighting for and I always try to respect the opposition's point of view," he said.

He and his wife, Lorna, are empty nesters, and it hasn't been an easy transition, he said.

"As for why voters should come out and support candidates in an uncontested race, Lemcke said, "Every other year the voters have a chance to show elected officials what they feel about the future of their community. Their votes of confidence provide me with the strength to carry on."

The salary for the supervisor is $18,230 and the term is for two years.

October 23, 2005