Patrick Speaks: Q&A with Patrick B. Bell

This year Forsyth County will have three contested seats on the Board of Commissioners.

Chairman Jim Boff, who represents District 5, and District 4 Commissioner Patrick Bell will complete their first term this year. District 2 Commissioner Brian Tam will complete his second.

So far Bell is the only one who has announced his intention to run for reelection. Two opponents, and have announced that they will challenge the incumbent.

on Tuesday, Jan. 17, answered our questions about the ousting of former Board of Commissioner Chair Brian Tam, his plans to move Forsyth County in a positive direction if he is reelected, his current relationship with opponents Cindy J. Mills and Bill Mulrooney, and what voters can expect at this week's town hall meeting.

Cumming Patch: What are your thoughts about the ousting of former Chairman Brian Tam?

Patrick: First of all, I think that Commissioner Tam did an acceptable job as Chairman for 2011. I simply thought a different direction and tone would be beneficial for the issues we are facing in 2012. I look forward to continuing to work with Brian. We have been elected as five commissioners, with different personalities and desires, all working for the betterment of Forsyth County. 

Cumming Patch: What are your plans to move Forsyth County in a positive direction should you be reelected as District 4 Commissioner?

Patrick: I will continue focusing on the real issues of importance to our citizens — issues such as economic development, private-sector job creation, transportation, property rights and the elimination of unnecessary government spending. I am the same as most every other person and I’m no different because I have been given the opportunity to serve on the board. I run a small business that is suffering the effects of the economy and I have children and grandchildren that I worry about their future. I am very proud of my track record of logical, common sense approaches to the issues we face and have shown that I don’t make decisions for the political future, don’t bend to the pressure of special interests and keep working on practical solutions.

The relationships I have built have allowed me to bring a pro-business Opportunity Zone to District 4, when it was thought to be impossible, that will bring increased value and private sector jobs to the northern area of Forsyth County. I have instituted programs that protect our local businesses and work every day to reduce bureaucracy and red tape in our government. With the assistance of Sen. Murphy, Rep. Hamilton and Lt. Governor Cagle, I was able to shake loose a much-needed permit from the EPD that was held hostage for nearly a decade by government bureaucrats and environmental activists.  Without this mutual respect and cooperation, we would still be in a holding pattern that was putting our county at risk.

There will always be difficult decisions to be made and some with not so popular outcomes. ... However, every decision I make is made for the right reason and with careful thought, consideration and prayer.  

Cumming Patch: What is your current relationship with your opponents Cindy J. Mills and Bill Mulrooney?

Patrick: First and foremost, both of my opponents are my constituents and I welcome their views. I have given this question serious thought and consideration over the last few days and I’m disappointed in the way they have set the tone for their campaigns. I truly expected a higher standard than they have offered. As I said before, rather than engaging in political games and spin, I believe Forsyth County citizens deserve a real discussion about the issues that matter most—issues such as economic development, private-sector job creation, transportation and the elimination of unnecessary government spending. The tactics some of my opponents are employing do little more than cast a shadow over the problems plaguing our system, deflect energies away from creating solutions and gives them cover from having to provide answers to those serious issues.

My campaign has been, and will continue to be, an open dialogue centered on providing solutions — not political maneuvering. I challenge my opponents to join me in conversation about the future of our community. I think our citizens deserve, and should demand, high standards focused on community issues.

Cumming Patch: You are holding a town hall meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 17, what can we expect from the event?

Patrick: I promised to hold town hall meetings when I ran for office with this being the fourth or fifth town hall I have held since being elected. Over the years I have gotten the reputation as the most accessible commissioner and one that responds to the citizens, no matter the position. I truly enjoy getting out into the community and hearing the concerns, questions and comments from the folks I am so grateful to serve. There are no major announcements anticipated at this get together—just open discussions and conversation.

Read more about Patrick Bell on his Web site.

Editor's Note: Read our recent q&a sessions with and .