During the past 16 years, my opponent has developed a pattern of pushing the limits. Here are just a few examples.

A couple of days after the Brian Nichols shootings in 2005, and in violation of state and county law, Mr. Wingo brought a gun onto county property. When confronted about it, he stated that he was exempt from that law.

Over the years he has repeatedly tried to get the authority to grant tax abatements and refunds. Combining the authority to collect taxes and then to personally decide who gets exemptions or refunds has the potential of abuse written all over it. (To see the latest attempt, check the Board of Commissioner minutes of Feb. 22, 2007, and March 27, 2007. Especially pertinent are Chairman Smith’s comments).

In April 2008, the interim county administrator cautioned the Board of Commissioners about Mr. Wingo’s request to increase municipal taxes in order “to increase his overall compensation.” He currently earns more than $101,000 a year.

During this re-election campaign, in violation of state ethics, he used the tax office to distribute campaign literature. When approached about this, he said it was not campaign literature but rather it was only an announcement of his candidacy. (This despite the fact the material asked for the reader’s support and vote).

Even though state law prohibits the use of the “CPA” title by anyone not currently licensed, he has used the CPA designation on every piece of campaign literature, even though his license expired in 2005. He admitted that his license was expired but said, “I put that on my sign to show my level of experience.” (If you wish to verify this is not permitted, call 478-207-2440 to check for yourself).

It is time for a new attitude. We will provide improved electronic access to the tax office using web-based tools and forms, thereby saving gas, time and effort.

It is time for a fresh perspective. We will establish a senior citizen and exemptions advocate to assist senior citizens age 62 and over and eligible disabled veterans/taxpayers file for property tax exemptions; we will provide easy to read, large-font forms; and we will provide a separate area to maintain privacy and dignity for those needing assistance.

It is time for Linda Wells as tax commissioner. I would appreciate your vote on July 15.

Linda Wells

candidate for tax commissioner

Fayetteville, Ga.