Kudos to the county executive

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Kudos to the county executive

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County Executive Jack Johnson deserves praise for his role in management of the county’s ability to pay its debt and the potential millions of dollars taxpayers could ultimately save because of our improved bond rating. This latest improvement — AAA rating from Standard & Poor’s — marks the third time since Mr. Johnson took office that one of the three major agencies upgraded the county’s credit worthiness.

Though such achievements often result from the work of dozens — the County Council and Chairman [Samuel H.] Dean as well as the financial management team of the executive branch deserve mention — Mr. Johnson ultimately sets the direction. Certainly, if our bond rating declined, Mr. Johnson would absorb the blame.

Mr. Johnson and I differ on many issues. Our political battles have raised the bar for what one must travail to hold the county’s highest office. County politicos and the press often attribute our rivalry to animus. They offer an erroneous view. Two intelligent persons can share a goal of wanting the best for Prince George’s County and share little regarding the best course, methodology or priorities.

However, enmity is the enemy of clarity, and on the issue of financial management, our goal with the rating agencies remains clear. The future offers abundant opportunities for exploring the differences I have on issues such as improving our education system, reducing crime, preserving our neighborhoods and spreading economic opportunities to those most in need with Mr. Johnson and others seeking to set the county’s course. Yet, having the highest possible bond rating remains a goal any local government executive would aspire to and all would agree benefits the taxpayers of Prince George’s.

Though some might argue the expansion of the county’s tax-based and diversified economic profiles started before Mr. Johnson, Mr. Johnson at a minimum has allowed that growth to continue. Mr. Johnson deserves a public note of thanks. On this issue, he has done well.

Rushern L. Baker III, Cheverly