For the Record...on the issues

Immigration...We need to get serious about illegal immigration. Stiffer penalties should be enacted to force employers who disregard the rules to stop doing business in Ohio. Law enforcement should be empowered to examine  documentation on the employer's premises to prove every employee is here legally. Schools should be required to document the legal status of all students enrolled in grades K-12.

The Budget, Taxes and Economy . . . Paul began his accounting & tax practice in 1976 and today provides services to over 950 families and 250 businesses in Southwestern Ohio. He understands what it takes to meet a payroll, to stay on budget, and to create jobs. As a Registered Financial Consultant (RFC) and Financial Advisor, Paul helps many clients invest and plan for retirement. As a Middletown City Commissioner, Paul helped design and implement a 5-year financial and capital improvement plan to help ensure a balanced budget in the future.

The Environment... Although closing Middletown’s landfill was an example of an "unfunded mandate" by the Federal Government and cost $2.5 million, the appropriation was given top priority in order to preserve the local environment. Paul has always supported legislation that provides for the protection of our environment but will be a strong voice for us if that legislation is unfunded or includes unfair taxation.

Abortion and Right to Life... As a devoted parent and member of the Catholic faith, Paul has always and will always fight (in a peaceful way) for the rights of the unborn child.

Agriculture... Paul’s wife Cecelia (Vogelsang) was raised on a farm south of Monroe. Her brothers still raise livestock and bale hay in the fields. Paul and Cecelia have horses they ride and care for. Paul is a member of the Butler County Farm Bureau and understands the need for Butler County to continue to promote a successful ranching and farming climate.

The Drug Crisis... As a parent, Paul is concerned about the availability of illegal drugs and the impact they could have on future generations. We must ensure that our children receive the education they need to avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse. We must also maintain a strict law enforcement policy to punish the drug dealers to the fullest extent.

Roads and Highways... We need to identify the need for major road construction in Butler County so that when businesses and employers look to relocate they will know that that we have a plan.  I would like to identify Route 127 from I70 to Route 129 as a major highway for future construction.  It would give access from I75 to I70 around Hamilton and would create a major industrial expansion in Butler County.

Jobs... Since Ohio is currently ranked 46th in business tax climate according to the Tax Foundation, the only way to attract business and jobs is by lowering taxes. It’s really that simple.  Taxes matter to business.  Taxes affect business decisions, job creation and retention, plant location etc.

2nd Amendment... As a former military soldier, currently licensed for concealed carry and avid hunter, I will always protect the 2nd amendment. I favor the new Castle Doctrine and even went to Columbus to attend the committee hearing on Senate Bill 184.  I believe in Thomas Jefferson’s' quote after the Revolutionary War: "Those who hammer their guns into plows will plow for those who do not."  We have too many gun laws already.

Healthcare...The healthcare crisis is a direct result of punitive law suits brought against doctors and the overwhelming number of illegal immigrants and Medicaid recipients using the health care system for free. Tort reform and stopping illegal immigration will help but mandating health care is not the answer. I believe in publishing hospital costs and success rates for procedures performed so that the consumer knows who the best is and what the cost is.

Regional Cooperation... I think it is important for all local government to share ideas and cooperate in any way that saves taxpayer money and improves the quality of life.  I favor consolidation of services whenever possible.  When I served on the City Commission in Middletown, I was an active member of the Warren County Municipal League and attended many regional meetings with other city and township officials.