Here’s why I’m doing this

To place this in context, please read this post over at Folkbum’s blog dealing with the County Parks. The County Executive calls the parks “strong” and “vibrant.” If they were, I wouldn’t be doing this! Please read the post.  It’s no wonder the suburban parks are in good shape while the urban parks deteriorate. This touches on the core reasons for my bid for the County Board. It’s no surprise my message has resonated with my neighbors!

Here’s what I posted as a comment. It may sound like a campaign stump speech, but it’s actually how I feel.

The litter, overgrown weeds, and the County Executive’s threats to close the wading pool at Humboldt Park in Bay View are among the things that motivated me to run for the Milwaukee County Board in the 14th district. It was because of this that I made my three principles of Clean Parks, Clean Air and Clean Government. Humboldt Park and Bay View are suffering because we do not have these three things. We do not have Clean Parks thanks to the County Executive’s sloppy management and deliberate neglect of the parks. The tall, old trees in Humboldt Park are dying, partially from neglect, and partially from air pollution — hence my calls for Clean Air and Clean Government. The more I have looked around and seen the neglect of government and the many sources of air pollution in Milwaukee, the more I see that we need someone not just to call for these things, but someone to work and fight for these things. And that is why I’m running for the County Board.

[announce] Haas calls for Milwaukee County to use biodiesel in bus fleet

Today I issued a new press release calling for Milwaukee County to use biodiesel in its bus fleet. The advantages of doing so are a reduction in toxic exhaust, clean air, better health for everyone in the County, and added longevity of bus engines.

Please also see my announcement dated December 20, 2007 in which I hailed Milwaukee Congresswoman Gwen Moore for securing funding for the Milwaukee County Transit System to buy buses with cleaner diesel engines, which will contribute to clean air and improved transit options.

Jason Haas, in pictures

As a photographer for the Bay View Compass, I rarely find myself in front of a camera. But here are two good pictures of me.

Here’s a decent head shot. Press, you have my permission to use it for informational pieces about the campaign.

The next photo, previously seen on this site, is of my daughter and I going to the 2006 Daddy-Daughter Dance.

More soon!

Letter to Journal Sentinel on privatization

In light of the forthcoming Journal Sentinel point-counterpoint on privatization featuring County Executive Scott Walker and the Journal Sentinel editorial board, I took the liberty to send in my own opinion. Here it is for your perusal.

Dear Editor,

As a candidate for the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, I am frequently asked for my opinion on privatization. While I am generally averse to privatization, I feel it should be considered on a case-by-case basis. In the case of the airport, we must remember that Mitchell International Airport is a publicly owned asset. Because of this, airport management is subject to public scrutiny, and any profit it makes goes into the public coffers, not an investor’s bank account.

In the past, privatizing the County’s public assets has meant lost jobs and an ultimately higher cost to the County. I believe that to sell operation of the airport to the highest bidder would be to relinquish one of the County’s gems. I find this unacceptable, and will oppose such an action on the County Board.

Sincerely,

Jason Haas
Candidate, Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, 14th District

Nomination papers turned in, it’s off to the primary.

It’s going to be an exciting four-way primary. May the best candidates win!

Volunteer Info

We need your help! Especially with lit drops, but if you’re interested in doing something else, by all means please get in touch. The easiest way is to email us, or call Jason at 414-530-0505. Thanks!