Picente shows value of proven experience as Oneida County executive

There is ample reason to support term limits. One could become complacent if left in a position of authority for too long a period of time.

Some could even become immune to the concerns of their constituents. This is very true of those leaders distant from voters such as: the president, senators, congresspeople.

However, on a local level, where voters have potential for day-to-day personal contact with elected leaders, most long-term office holders don’t have the opportunity to become distanced from their constituents’ real problems.

One might easily interact with a mayor, legislator, councilperson, county executive or county sheriff at a coffee shop or at one of many community gatherings.

This opportunity to have face-to-face contact with government leaders helps keep the negatives of long-term leadership to a minimum.

One must not neglect to reason that experience is a valuable asset only achieved by spending time in a position. The saying: “If it ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it” has merit. Just because change seems to be enticing, at the local level it is often not prudent.

Our Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr. is an effective leader at the local level who has a proven record of efficiency and accountability in executing the duties of his position.

It is with this posture that I submit keeping experience and efficiency in this important local position.

— Joseph P. Bottini, Sauquoit