Special Declaration: I am Seeking to Serve as County Commissioner
Friends and Neighbors,
Today, I officially filed my candidacy for County Commissioner because taxpayers expect someone willing to stand up, face difficult questions, and be resolute for accountable governance.
County government has operated with the same trend year after year: new taxes, obscure surpluses, and elevated expenses - while family budgets are not duly considered.
Enough.
Right now, the County is sitting on an approximately $18 million surplus while continuing to raise taxes every year. That means residents are being overtaxed by an estimated 15% while government stockpiles your money instead of returning it to the people who earned it.
While serving Otsego, I promised to reduce property taxes. I kept that promise and delivered the first property tax reduction in our city’s history.
I also delivered responsible budgeting that ended the cycle of annual surpluses and reduced unnecessary taxation.
And when hasty spending came forward, I consistently voted against it.
Leadership means showing up
Leadership is about more than voting. It’s about showing up.
While others missed meetings, I attended every single Council meeting, Commission meeting, and Subcommittee meeting without exception.
Because taxpayers expect elected officials who are engaged, informed, and willing to do the work.
Public safety is a core responsibility
I strongly support our Sheriff’s Office and the brave men and women who serve our communities.
We need to ensure our deputies are paid competitively and that law enforcement has the resources necessary to keep our cities safe. While others play politics with public safety and the Sheriff’s salary, I am willing to stand up and support law enforcement.
At the same time, we must modernize services and eliminate waste wherever possible. I support regional fire service partnerships that can improve emergency response while reducing long-term costs for taxpayers.
Transparency matters
That’s why I have published a free newsletter every week without fail, and will continue to do so. That’s 175 issues on important matters for residents on topics and events they aren’t getting elsewhere.
No gatekeepers. Just direct communication with residents about what their government is doing and how their money is being spent.
My approach is simple
I’ve entered this contest because I believe taxpayers expect an independent voice willing to challenge the status quo, demand accountability, and stand firm for responsible governance.
I have done it before.
And I’m ready to do it again.
This year, I respectfully ask for your vote for County Commissioner.
Sincerely,
Ryan Dunlap
Candidate for County Commissioner
www.rjdunlap.com
P.S. If you believe county government should live within its means, support law enforcement, and respect taxpayers, I hope you’ll join our campaign and support our effort this year. Please forward this email to your friends, family, and neighbors.