What about your background and experience qualifies you to serve on the Jackson County Council?

I manage multiple locations all with budgets over a million dollars.

What is the role of the council and its members?

To oversee county finances and assets.

What is the top issue facing our county, and how would you address it?

Road maintenance. I would work with the state on ways to find and get more funding.

What steps should the council take to keep the budget balanced and not have to dip into savings?

Stay within budget and treat the taxpayers’ money as if it is coming out of your pocket.

What are the biggest financial challenges facing the county, and how would you address them?

Slow growth. I would work with Jackson County Industrial Development Corp.

Jail overcrowding is an increasing concern. How can the problem be solved? Do you support a jail expansion?

By utilizing home detention and probation more for low-level offenders. I support jail expansion if it makes sense.

Is open government important? Why or why not? How will you ensure that the council is open and honest with the public?

Yes, because it is their money we are using and ensure all meetings are open and by keeping good records and making sure they are available.

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Name: Ralph Collins

Age: 54

Party: Republican

Residence: Medora

Family: Wife, Dawn Collins; son, Daniel Collins; daughter, Karina Collins

Occupation: Landfill and transfer station manager

Political experience: Current member of the Jackson County Board of Zoning Appeals

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