It's easy to feel left out of county government decisions.

Rather than asking us what we think, county commissioners have spent their time bickering with each other. And when they finally do ask for our opinion, the decisions have already been made. I'm running for the County Commission to change all that.

Because the things the county is responsible for are important. Things like giving kids and seniors' access to health care, providing children with safe and healthy options after school is done for the day, and keeping our community especially our bridges, safe.

These decisions are much too important for us to be left out.

One key decision in our future has to do with keeping local families healthy. I think everyone in Multnomah County should have access to high quality, affordable health care no matter where they live or how much money they make.

I'll work hard to get state and federal funding for county health care, along with developing new options for delivering high quality, affordable care to the people who need it most. The County can also do more to help Multnomah County's kids do better in school and stay healthy.

The County's SUN Schools help improve test scores, keep kids healthier, and bring neighborhoods together. But they still don't have a stable funding source.

My top education priority is guaranteeing stable funding for SUN Schools so they can focus on helping kids, and not keeping the doors open.

When it comes to public safety, the county can help reduce crime and gang violence by opening Wapato Jail. My plan also includes increased drug treatment and electronic surveillance options for non-violent offenders, and more training to ensure Sheriff's Deputies can safely resolve situations involving mental health needs.

Some of these challenges may seem daunting. But it's important that we start doing the work today. Small changes in County government can have an immediate impact, and big changes have the potential to change lives.

Please contact me at any time for more information and to offer your ideas, at rob@robforcounty.org, or visit us online at www.robforcounty.org to learn more about my campaign.

Thank you.
Rob Milesnick

Rob Milesnick of Portland, Oregon. Rob is a candidate for Multnomah County Commissioner, District 3. (Currently held by Commissioner Lisa Naito.) More information at RobForCounty.org