Daniels looks for efficiencies in county

Everybody wants a lean government, Jerry Daniels said.
“Sometimes taxes go up,” Daniels said. “I think the main concern from people I’ve talked to is to make sure the money is being spent wisely and efficiently.”
Daniels, Humboldt, is seeking a seat on the Allen County Commission to replace the outgoing Dick Works in District 1, which covers much of the southern and eastern part of the county, including Humboldt and Moran.
He is opposed by Jim Mueller, Moran, in Tuesday’s primary election.
Allen County’s commissioners in the past have done a good job of keeping its infrastructure in good shape by hiring qualified employees under the guidance of dependable supervisors, Daniels said.
Daniels also praised the cooperative manner in which the county works with local communities, such as Humboldt, Moran and Iola.
“The mutual aid agreements between the county and cities are invaluable,” he said. “That’s what ensures the safety of our citizens. The key to keeping agreements in place is by keeping the lines of communication open. Rumors can spread quickly.”
Open dialogue can stop rumors before they start, he concluded.
Take, for example, the ongoing ambulance issue between the city and county. Iola council members are seeking additional funding from the county to cover projected shortfalls for its countywide EMS service.
The county has hinted it would help cover a part of that shortfall, provided the money is returned if the city abandons the service. Negotiations have been ongoing.
“Hopefully, this is resolved by the time January rolls around,” and the winner of Tuesday’s primary presumably takes office. (The winner has no Democratic opponent in November.)
“January is still a long ways away, but it’ll be here quicker than you think” he said.
If necessary, he pledges to enter the ambulance discussion with an open mind.
Daniels has had a lengthy career in law enforcement. In addition to serving as Allen County undersheriff for about a year under current Sheriff Bryan Murphy, Daniels worked for about 20 years combined with the Humboldt Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol.
A licensed pilot, Daniels also flew medical helicopters for several years, and now owns Humboldt Helicopters.
He also farms and ranches near Humboldt and is retired from the Kansas National Guard.
Daniels and his wife, Dena, have four children.