Candidate Comparison: Randall County Commissioner, Pct. 2

Last month, the Amarillo Pioneer requested responses from the candidates running in the March 6th primary elections regarding the top issues facing Amarillo and the surrounding areas.

Over the next two weeks, the Amarillo Pioneer will be featuring condensed versions of the candidates' responses in our daily editions of the Amarillo Pioneer to better acquaint voters with their choices on March 6th.

For full responses, please visit https://www.amarillopioneer.com/voter-guide/.

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Mark C. Benton (Incumbent)

What will be your top priority, if elected?

"Continue the Commissioners Court fiscal restraint. The county tax rate has increased by less than 5 1/2 cents per $100 valuation in 10 years. Also, continue to work on improving the County's Road & Subdivision policy to deal with population growth."

Is Randall County's tax rate too high?

"I do not believe the County's tax rate is too high. When compared to like sized counties, Randall County has a low rate. Randall's rate is less than 2/3 the property tax rate for Potter County. The Randall tax rate was held the same for fiscal year 2017/2018. Many of the sheriff office and fire department positions are held by volunteer members, helping to reduce the overall cost to taxpayers."

Do you support switching Randall County from voting machines to paper ballots?

"I do not support switching to paper ballots. Randall County taxpayers have just spent $1.5 million to replace all the digital voting machines. Funds were budgeted for three years to save up to pay for the new voting machines. The vote center system (allowing votes at any polling location) has been favorably received by residents. This system requires digital communications between all polling locations."

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Tam Boatler

What will be your top priority, if elected?

"Making myself available to Randall Citizens to address their concerns."

Is Randall County's tax rate too high?

"No, but there is concern about rising property evaluations. Certainly, tax rates should be fair and taxpayers should receive excellent service for their tax dollars."

Do you support switching Randall County from voting machines to paper ballots?

"No, the most efficient and economical means of voting should be used."