GILLETTE, Wyo. — As the Aug. 20 primary election nears, County 17 has sent lists of questions to each primary candidate.
These questions are designed to give readers a better understanding of the people behind the names on the ballot. Except for minor grammar editing and clarifications, all candidate responses submitted to County 17 are republished as they are received.
Read responses sent by Larry D. Steiger, candidate for Campbell County Commissioner, below.
What issues, if any, impacted your decision to run for this position or why were you interested in the position.
I’m tired of back door shenanigans that keep us in the dark and also felt that we need a more diversified board in order to make better decisions.
What unique life or career experience would you bring to the role?
I have worked with students and adults, face-to-face for 38 years in the education field. Coaching from the high school level to the Olympic level of coaching and planning. Planning to make this level of coaching has helped me become equipped with the skills needed to tackle challenges as a county commissioner. I can bring fresh perspectives and creative solutions for the county.
Do you have previous experience in governmental office?
I have been on the Rec Center board that designed the Rec Center we now have. I have been elected to the Campbell County School Board the last four years.
How would the 1% Cap Tax be best spent, in your opinion?
First it has to pass, then we need to engage as a community to gather input on spending priorities is crucial to ensure that the 1% Cap Tax is used in the ways that best meet the needs and desires of Campbell County residents.
What is your view on taxation more broadly?
Taxes should be levied in a way that is fair and equitable, ensuring that all citizens contribute their fair share according to their ability to pay. Taxes should be flexible and responsive to changing economic conditions, allowing for adjustments to tax rates or policies as needed to address economic challenges.
What are the top issues facing communities in Campbell County right now, and what would you do about them if elected?
A couple of issues is the 10 million ranch that commissioners bought for the shooting complex, workforce affordable housing and start developing strategies to diversity the local economy. If elected, addressing these and other issues would involve working closely with local government officials, community leaders, and residents to develop and implement effective solutions.
What is your stance on recently enacted BLM rules regarding coal and oil leasing in the county and broader Powder River Basin area?
One big impact would depend on who’s in the White House. Right now the rules hinder economic growth, reduce energy independence, and lead to job losses in the energy sector. Right now the Commissioners, BLM, Mine Admin, State and Federal governments need to work together in balancing the economic benefits of energy production.
In their role, commissioners approve a wide variety of local organizations and government bodies to apply for grants from various sources. What would your approach to county financials look like and do you have any opinion on taking federal money for projects such as infrastructure improvements?
I want to ensure that financial decisions are transparent. To have regularly published budget reports and to engage with the community to explain how funds are being used. Having some federal funds can help with roads and bridges, public facilities, and stimulate the local economies by creating jobs and boosting the local businesses. So we need a balanced approach to the county financials, careful budgeting, transparency, efficiency, and strategic use of diverse funding sources, to enhance the community services and infrastructure.
Do you have any previous experience working with budgets in a governmental, corporate or non-profit capacity?
I have been part of the Campbell County School District budget.
Have you ever held or do you currently hold any title, affiliation or investments that would be a conflict of interest with your duties as a county government official?
No, I do not have a conflict of interest for this position!
