Stephen is a leader who listens

Delaware County Residents,

Stephen Brand has served Delaware County residents in a variety of ways over the years, and now he wants to serve as one of Delaware County’s Commissioners. I personally think he is the ideal person for the role.

Commissioners are responsible for the county’s budget. They decide where tax dollars are allocated, spent, and, more importantly, saved and invested for the future. Having served with Stephen on the Muncie Sanitary District board, I can attest to his fiscal responsibility. He is conservative; yet he understands the need to invest in quality people, necessary resources, and important projects.

Stephen is a leader who listens. He asks good questions, truly listens to the answers, and then offers his perspective or decision after carefully evaluating all the input. As you get to know Stephen, you will quickly notice what appears to be his quiet nature. Yet he isn’t shy. Rather he wants others to have the ability to speak and express themselves so he can gain better understanding. Only after hearing from others and doing his own thorough research will he express his thoughts and/or decisions. I, for one, think more of our elected officials should truly listen to us like Stephen listens. When his final decision is different from others, you can be assured that he will communicate with tact and respect. It’s impossible to agree with everyone on every subject. Yet Stephen will have considered all options, all opinions, all directions, and truly listened to all perspectives to form the best possible decision to move forward.

When Stephen shared with me that he was planning to run for Delaware County Commissioner, I was most excited about his plans for improving economic development! He will ensure that all stakeholders collaborate and that our county stands out as a place that is ready for new businesses to locate here. Ask him about his economic development plans. If you care about the future of Delaware County, you will likely reply the same way I did – with a huge smile and a “YES!"

I’m so proud and happy that my forward-thinking friend wants to continue serving the county as an elected Commissioner. Meet him, ask him hard questions, get to know him and his heart for Delaware County. I think you will be happy he is running too.

Tonya Brothers-Bridge
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