Pension Issues and Term Limits
During my travels throughout the 5th district, knocking on doors and speaking with neighbors, two issues are paramount wherever I go. I keep hearing about excessive pensions for County Council members and term limits for elected officials. As a candidate for County Council, I believe, with one easy change, both issues can be easily rectified.
In December of this year there will be at least four new members of the County Council, a new majority on that seven member body. Because of this, change is inevitable. The time is right for POSITIVE change that will be in the best interest of the people of Baltimore County.
After people are in office for too long they become stagnant. Often they focus on their political careers and not on the interests of the people who elected them. When someone is in office for too long, they run out of fresh ideas. The people of Baltimore County deserve someone representing them who has drive, enthusiasm and a fresh perspective.
Setting term limits for the Baltimore County Council members at eight years solves both the problem of excessive pensions and stale ideas. If eight years is enough for our County Executive, then eight years should be enough for our council members. Not only will the pension issue be resolved but we will create the opportunity for new leaders to emerge for other County seats. Competition at elections is not only good for people that we serve but it will keep elected officials better in touch with people’s needs.
If elected, I will introduce a bill setting a two term, eight year limit for council members. If it doesn’t pass, I will then introduce another bill that requires a cap on pensions after two terms. This way, a council member may continue to serve, if elected, but only receive pension benefits for a total of eight years. Even if neither of these bills pass, I pledge to only serve two terms myself to set an example for my colleagues and future council members. This one proposal will eliminate excessive pensions, save your tax dollars, foster new ideas and new leadership for the future of Baltimore County.
Bill Paulshock
Your issues are Bill's issues. Residents, Small Business, Developers and Local County Government working together for a better Community. Better Schools, Safer Neighborhoods and Seniors are at the top of Bill's list. What's at the top of yours?
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