On Sept. 9 we will go to the polls to vote in the primary election. I will be casting my vote for Curtis Smith for County Commissioner District 5. I have come to know Curtis over the past few years and am convinced that he is the right person for this position. 

Here’s what I know about Curtis Smith: He is a hard-working, success-driven, honest and fair business man. He is a devoted father and husband. He is a man of integrity and will do what he says he will do. He is committed to succeeding and helping others to succeed in Freeborn County. He is a team player and has proven that by being a successful business partner in two businesses in Albert Lea and by being an excellent volunteer in our community. He has worked successfully on at least three struggling businesses in our community and has turned them around in no time at all. He is a busy man, and it has been said, “If you want something done, give it to the busy person!”

I believe Curtis can hit the ground running when it comes to this position on the county board. Every day Curtis deals with the complexities of budgets and will be the person to be able to make the tough decisions in this tough economy! Curtis Smith is a man of strong principles and will work hard to get along with the other commissioners but will be the one to stand up for his constituents! I believe Curtis will keep his priorities straight in this position by representing his constituents first and foremost and will do what is right for the people of Freeborn County.

A lot of times on the campaign trail you will hear candidates say things like, “I want to roll my sleeves up and start working hard for my community,” or, “I just want a way to give back to my community.” Curtis Smith already has his sleeves rolled up and is already working hard and every day giving back to his community! In my opinion, the choice is clear — Curtis Smith is the right person to represent District 5.

If you live in District 5, please join me in supporting Curtis Smith on Sept. 9. You’ll be glad you did!

George Marin

Albert Lea