Clayton Hill
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
Much has been said about possible conflicts of interests regarding the purchases of ambulances from a supplier from Canada instead of Missouri-built vehicles. It is my belief the Commission acted in good faith in selecting the lesser-priced vehicles as they apparently met specifications at a better tax value. There may be some law dictating buy "Made in the USA," but it is absurd to think all components of the "Missouri built" units are engineered, manufactured and/or assembled in this state or the United States for that manner. I laud the commission's effort to stretch our tax dollars to the fullest and promote a lean budget.
Regarding the dispute concerning possible conflict of interest on the courthouse landscaping project, I believe the third party purchase stands the scrutiny test - a lot of superfluous rhetoric and trifle that appears to be more of an accounting issue not related to business of the commissioner.
Regardless, of who wins the contested races, I value the direction of the commission has shown as it continues down the path of seeking the best service and government for Cole County citizens. That path is not necessarily "doing business as usual" with ingrained established habits.