Bedford County Commissioner – Vote for Not More than Two

Deb Baughman

Democrat, age 65, Saxton, PA

Married to John, who serves on the Tussey Mountain School Board; Three grown sons – Adam, Jonathan, and Zachary; and three young granddaughters

Retired teacher: career and workforce preparation

Previous experience in elected office:

-2018 Democratic nominee for state representative/78th district

Why are you running for this office?

I believe Bedford County has the potential to grow and become stronger. Growth is spreading west from the southeast part of the state. We can take advantage of that with smart, strategic action that will benefit our rural economy and small-town way of life. I am dedicated to bringing needed funding, services, and development to our area.

What is the biggest problem you expect to face in office?

The population decline in the county, especially among young people/young families and its impact on our rural economy and quality of life. Simply looking at county school enrollment, we have far fewer 1st graders than 12th graders. This decline affects the tax base, available workforce, and the future potential of our county. If we continue in a downward direction, there will be little here for any of us.

What is the most important issue related to the position you are seeking?

I would place countywide cell service and broadband at the top of the list. A lack of service and modern technology is holding our county back, and that limits economic and community development.

What are your primary goals for the position you are seeking?

1) Improve infrastructure – especially countywide broadband and cell service. 2) Create and maintain communities where people want to live; assist local leaders with obtaining needed resources. 3) Be an advocate for financial breaks for the elderly, such as eliminating the county head tax for senior residents. 4) Grow networks within the county and region to tackle tough problems together.

What opportunities do you perceive in the position you are seeking? There is a lot of talent in the county. I want to work as a team to harness that power and positive energy for the benefit of all. We are "built to last" with assets that include a people with grit, a proud heritage, and a land rich in natural beauty and resources. We have a can-do spirit to power us forward, a commitment to community and a dedication to our youth and future. We can leverage those assets to our benefit and be successfully rural. This work has already begun- let's keep the momentum going!

What other comments would you like to make regarding the position? I won't forget that I work for the people of Bedford County and will strive to see that everyone gets a fair shake- residents, taxpayers, employees, businesses, and municipalities. There will be no special treatment for the well- connected.