The first one hundred and twenty days have passed swiftly for the new Board of County Commissioners, and I can proudly report that this Board is serving the county well.  The new Board began its duties January 7, 2008, and four months later, I can report County government is in good hands. In an era in which many people ask the question “does our system of government work,” I can state emphatically that government is working, and working well, in Chester County.

 And, the Board is working to improve our excellent government. Our goal is to move from good to great. We have adopted a resolution to formulate a strategic plan.  This is essential since the County has 2,500 employees, 55 departments and an operating budget of $433 million. 

The new Board, including Chair Carol Aichele and Commissioner Kathi Cozzone, is working together well, and we have made a smooth transition from the previous Board. We have kept County projects, including the new Justice Center, moving along on time and on budget. We reviewed this year’s budget and maintained the zero tax increase. 

During this time, I have learned that the life of a Chester County Commissioner is rapid and never routine.  Every day seems to bring a new challenge to the table in the internal administration and management of the County, but we must keep, and have kept, our eye on the ball to meet our crucial policy goals. 

Chester County must continue its commitment to progressive improvement that is done in a fiscally conscientious manner.  Nothing attracts good businesses with high paying jobs more than a “can do” attitude where government partners with the community to keep the quality of life high.   

The citizens of Chester County have supported efficient government.  Due to your support, we have earned a Aaa bond rating with our finances serving as an outstanding model for good government.  We are on budget and on time with the construction of the new county justice center and plan to move into the new building in the fall of this year.   

The welfare and safety of our families is a prime responsibility.  As a result of the guidance of first responders throughout the County, we are moving forward with a new high-tech public safety training facility right here in our county.  This center is designed by first responders, for first responders, to best serve you, the citizens.  This will ensure that you will receive the best attention possible when our first responders are called into action.  Groundbreaking on the 70-acre site for the facility is scheduled for next year. In addition, we are working with local municipalities towards transportation relief and will continue to pressure Harrisburg for action as congestion in various areas of the county continues to be a major concern and causes potential safety hazards. 

We have continued the award-winning  Landscapes program in conjunction with groups committed to preserving our picturesque vistas.  Our present policy (see www. Landscapes2.org) has increased our county’s commitment to open space preservation to twenty million dollars per year.  This is money that when combined with private sector generosity can go much further.  A perfect model for future commitments has been found in the partnership with philanthropist H.F. “Gerry” Lenfest, who gave 568 acres to Natural Lands Trust, a nonprofit open-space conservation group that owns property throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey.  His efforts will lead to a 1,000-acre green expanse in the middle of Chester County.  Our hope is that the more publically spirited individuals and groups will step forward to join in a united effort for preservation.

Chester County’s quality of life is due to the hard work of many pulling in the same direction.  During my campaign last fall, I emphasized that government works best when it is interactive.  Government is far from the only catalyst for change in Chester County.  We must welcome the remarkable contributions of private citizens and groups.  It is not enough simply to listen, but we must continue to dialogue and partner with stakeholder groups and individual citizens in order to make a difference in this County. 

As Commissioners, my colleagues and I are determined to be a conduit by which we can all attempt to participate in writing the next chapters in the great story of this County.