Sarah Cummins

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[1. My name is Sarah Cummins. I was born and raised in Eldorado. I operated a local restaurant, Jim's Lotta Burger, for over 20 years, which included managing payroll. I also worked at Magnolia Manor with disabled individuals for a short time. My work experience has always included dealing with the public.

I am a successful businesswoman who owns and manages many rental properties, and have years of experience balancing a budget. I am proud to say I always maintain good working relations with my employees. I believe my business experience and background in public relations will benefit our community.

I am in this race for the people of Eldorado and will promote equal opportunity employment. If elected, I will lead this city forward.

I represent noticeable change in leadership, honest diplomacy and fairness to all our residents.

2. The cleanup project which started three terms ago in 2001 should continue. The appearance of the town is of the utmost importance. Not only is it important to homeowners, it is important to economic growth. I would like to see some new projects started, such as restoring some of the existing buildings downtown. Also I would like to see some type of incentive offered by our city to attract new business and employment to our area.

3. To keep finances from being a problem I will look closely at the budget and make decisions based on what is best for the taxpayers. With the current economy, tough decisions will no doubt lie ahead. I have years of experience balancing a budget and I intend to draw from that experience. Also, there has to be accountability in the city's business as there is in any successful business. In addition, if elected mayor I will look at agencies specializing in economic development who can come in with a plan to promote growth.

4. I am not in favor of participating in the flood plain.

Unfortunately, not having a pump station and levee like Harrisburg, which redirects the water, causes Eldorado to fall under different guidelines. For example, there are certain areas where a culvert could not be placed. Also, one cannot redirect water drainage in specific areas. In addition, the elevation of new businesses in the flood plain area would be raised, increasing the cost for the builder, and may deter new growth.

The city needs to look into excavating several retention ponds to hold the excess water. The more the city can solve its own problems, the better off it will be. Not having to abide by strict regulations that can hinder growth will benefit the city.