By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Duane Reif grew up on a farm in northeast Barton County and has spent his entire life in the county. After 30 years as a branch manager for a grain company, Reif recently retired and is now focused on earning a seat on the Barton County Commission.
Reif is one of four candidates that are running for the
District 1 position on the commission, and he felt communication is key for
good leadership.
"I'm very diverse," said Reif. "The reason I say that, as far as communication is concerned, I grew up and spent a lot of time in the northeast part of Barton County. I really feel like I know the people. I've heard their concerns and visited with them. Communication is really not a problem. I feel like I have a head start."
Reif gave his comments at the candidate forum last week hosted by the League of
Women Voters Great Bend – Barton County.
Reif is currently on the Hoisington
City Council and was the co-founder of the Kans For Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation.
When asked about taxation, Reif encouraged everyone to think about the benefits
before considering cuts.
"We don't want to lose any of these great benefits," said Reif. "That's what brings people into this community. The parks, zoo, swimming pools. Cheyenne Bottoms brings an awful amount of revenue into this community. Roads that take us to and from anywhere you want to go. Emergency services. Probably 90% of you in Barton County can call 9-1-1 and there will be someone at your door in probably five minutes."
Jeffery Donecker, Matthew Gerritzen and Linda Moeder are also running for the
District 1 position. Eagle Radio has featured each candidate this week.
You can view the entire candidate forum by clicking HERE.
Barton County Commission election preview - Jeffery Donecker
Barton County Commission election preview - Matthew Gerritzen