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Cruser to seek re-election as commissioner
Connie Cruser has announced formally her intention to seek re-election to the County Commissioners Third District position.
"After having the privilege of serving as one of your county commissioners for 14 months," Cruser said that she finds that the goals that she originally set out for herself are still the same:
1. To keep the quality of life for all Elmore Co. citizens a top priority.
2. To make good decisions based on research and data.
3. To communicate with patrons, informing them of decisions and ongoing issues.
4. To establish a working relationship with the media, the cities, and other entities to establish positive community coalitions, and,
5. To help create leaders of the future through leaving a legacy of good works and making a positive impact on people's lives.
Cruser said that the last 14 months "have been a very interesting, exciting, and busy learning experience.
"The learning curve has been very steep," she said, but added that she feels she has been up to the task. She said that she knew that "to fill the position correctly, a full-time commitment would be required" and has not been disappointed by the time commitment.
"One of the frustrations at times is that some things move much more slowly" than she had anticipated.
Cruser acknowledged that she has received "great support" from her fellow commissioners, Larry Rose and Mary Egusquiza. "They have a wealth of experience and knowledge and while they do not always agree on every issue, they have the greatest respect for each other."
She added that "all of the department heads and other elected officials have been very helpful" in her learning process. She especially appreciates Clerk Gail Best and Chief Deputy Clerk/Comptroller Merrilee Hiler. "Their knowledge and guidance in matters of County business is truly outstanding," she said.
Issues and concerns that she had when first running for this position are still current, she noted, with the exception of the jail bond.
"More issues facing the county include, the tremendous growth that is happening and how to fund for the infrastructure for this growth. The environmental concerns continue to be a top priority."
A few of the committees on which Cruser represents the county include: Region IV Mental Health Board, the Rural Mental Health task force, SAGE Community Resource Board, The Idaho Association of Counties, Justice and Public Safety and Health and Human Services committees, and the Elmore Center for Community Health.
Cruser has been a resident of Mountain Home for 41 years. She and her husband, Connley, have been married for 43 years and raised their three sons here. They are now enjoying having two sons and their families living here. They have 12 grandchildren.
Cruser has been employed as a Registered Nurse for 43 years, taught Health Occupations and CNA classes at Mountain Home High School, and formerly she was an Army Reserve Nurse and co-owner and operator of a successful Mountain Home children's clothing store. Presently she is a member of the Elmore Medical Center Foundation Board, Our Lady of Good Counsel Pastoral Council and a charter member of the Mountain Home Air Force Base Restoration Advisory Board. Over the years she has been involved in numerous volunteer activities.
Cruser said that "Elmore County continues to have some extremely important issues that could affect the quality of life for all citizens."
She believes that it is "very important for all citizens to become informed about the issues and vote for candidates whom they feel will best represent them.
"Everyone has a choice and all need to use their votes to be heard," she said.