My name is Stuart Barnes, I am a Democrat, and I am running for Post 5, Fayette County Commission. I am 57 years old, served honorably in the United States Navy, and have lived in Fayette County since 1978. I had a 21-year career with Eastern Airlines, and for the past 15 years my wife Elizabeth and I have owned and operated The Bookworm, a small new/used bookstore here in Fayetteville.

This being my first venture into local politics, or any other kind of politics, for that matter, I was very surprised at how much it cost. Candidates are spending $10,000, $20,000, even $30,000 to finance local political campaigns. It is clear to me that American politics has evolved into a system of representation for the highest bidder.

Since I do not wish to be a part of that system, I am neither soliciting nor accepting any campaign contributions whatever. Funds for my campaign will be coming from my own (not very deep) pockets, so you will be seeing no fancy billboards, glossy handouts, or expensive newspaper ads. I will send out letters stating my views and talk to as many people as I can between now and November.

Most people that I talk with around the county seem to share these same concerns: congestion, air and water pollution, crime, and the rapid decline of their peace, tranquillity, and quality of life. I would sum up all of these problems with one word, growth, the issue that concerns me more than any other.

I would advocate a more homeowner-friendly land use plan as well as more restrictive zoning ordinances. I would recommend a minimum of two-acre lot size in Fayette County and would like some provisions made to keep as many trees and as much natural vegetation as possible. Until such time as we can come up with a viable plan to use our land wisely and slow and control the growth, I would recommend a moratorium on all new rezoning applications.

My wife Elizabeth called the county complex the other day about a rezoning in our neighborhood and was told that commissioners did not have the time to meet with individual homeowners. I am semi-retired and would consider being county commissioner a full-time job. Fayette County citizens could always feel free to drop in to my bookstore, pull up a chair, and tell me what was on their mind. I may not always be able to agree, but I would always be willing to listen.

It seems to me that developers, builders, Realtors, and other powerful interest groups are well represented on our county commission. I would like to represent Fayette County homeowners.

Please consider voting for me on Nov. 3.