Gardner: The concept of using small area planning is a step in the right directions when doing comprehensive planning, however we must make sure the right balance of community members and leaders are involved in the planning. I support a General Development Plan that will not over burden, our infrastructure, schools, first responders, and nature or human resources.

Gardner: I would support step increases moving forward if they are budgeted for and the economy allows for such an increase.

Gardner: Anne Arundel’s tax cap was enacted after overwhelming voter support and has been in place for years. I don’t think the residents would not take kindly to having their cap changed. Unlike some of our neighboring counties are asking some of their public-sector employees to take a pay cut to balance their budgets. Our county is in great shape because of wise fiscally conservative decisions. Because of these decisions we will be able to meet our education and public safety needs in addition I plan on pushing for a 3 percent cut in property tax and the elimination of the Rain Tax.