Roger Romine

The Tyler Star News mailed questions to all candidates in the Sixth District House of Delegates race. The candidates are Republican Wm. Roger Romine, republican, and Karl Paul, democrat. Since they are of two different parties, the real race will be in November’s general election.

On Election Day, Tuesday, polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. A list of polling places an be found on page 21. Sample ballots are printed on pages 19-21.

Paul did not respond to our questionnaire. The answers from Romine, the incumbent, are as follows.

What can you do, through the delegate’s position, to help stimulate our economy, create more jobs, and attract new business to the area?

Romine: My party is not in the leadership position; therefore, all legislation must be placed on the committee agenda by the Democrat chairperson. I have develop a bipartisan relationship with the other party and believe I can gain the support of my colleagues across the aisle to seriously consider revising the tax structure in the state to attract new business. I.e. business franchise tax; inventory tax. These two alone could attract businesses to our state.

What do you see as the biggest issue with the increased natural resource activity in Tyler County and what can you do to alleviate it?

Romine: Roads, bridges, and infrastructure. All natural gas and oil producing counties should receive a larger portion of the tax revenue; these are our roads being destroyed. I, along with other northern county officials, have submitted a resolution requesting this action be considered. To achieve this, I will be one of affected counties to get this into legislation for a vote. We must get leadership to buy into this plan.

What would you identify as your top priority as a delegate and how, specifically, will you work to achieve it?

Romine: All issues that arise regarding this explosion of drilling for natural resources, do my best to insure all stakeholders have a seat at the table-farmers, surface owners, mineral rights owners. This business must be done responsibly. As one of one hundred delegates, I will make my voice heard regarding these issues.