BREAKING NEWS: Ron Pagano Drops Out Of 5th District Wicomico County Council Race

After careful consideration, including discussion with my physician and family members, I have decided to suspend my campaign and withdraw from the 5th District County Council race. I shared my physical concerns with supporters before agreeing to run, however, the physical demands have been greater than initially expected and I am unable to keep up with the pace. The Severe Degenerative Arthritis that I suffer from has flared up and increased in intensity, as a result of the schedule I have been trying to keep. I have never been one to quit, however, I am also realistic and understand that, in order to win, it will take a great deal of additional physical effort between now and November 4th for me to win.

My hope is that County leaders and elected officials will take to heart my recommendations. Foremost, I urge them to establish a county-level Office of Technology & Economic Development. No county in the state is growing or attracting real jobs without one. As the “Hub of Delmarva”, we need more than a one-person office if we hope to perform the work that’s needed to attract the jobs and partnerships that are available in the state. We cannot afford to sit idly by while the counties around us pursue the resources and opportunities that persons with vision can see. Wicomico County has a lot to offer and we need to get that message out, loud and clear.

We also need to support our schools and teachers. Without a great school system, there are few employers who will look to expand or relocate here. Without good training in high-tech skills, and without good job opportunities, our children will continue to leave the Shore and head over the Bridge, for a more secure future.

Our Deputies, Firefighters and EMS personnel also deserve to receive the best training and equipment available in order to continue to save lives and property. They are our First Responders and without their dedication and commitment, we are looking at an increased risk for loss of life and destruction of property. They put their lives on the line everyday, and when I see budget cuts affecting them, I wonder what some Council members are thinking.

We all want to keep taxes low, but there comes a point when excessive cuts will result in a failure, on the County’s part, to provide basic services to our citizens. Without these basic services, employers and businesses will continue to move elsewhere. Every business owner understands that it takes investment in order to achieve a return; without investment, there can be no revenue and no future. There are some on the County Council who have failed to grasp that concept. They are shortsighted and have little, if any, vision for the future. They are selfish and refuse to realize that there will come a time when ongoing budget cuts will erode the County’s ability to grow and prosper. Their wallets might grow a little fatter, but the County, its businesses and residents, will suffer in the end.

I sincerely want to thank every person who has worked hard, encouraged me and supported my campaign. Contributions will be returned over the next few weeks. I appreciate you all very much and hope we can continue to work together in the future, to make Wicomico County a better place for our families. I have learned a lot from talking to folks in the 5thdistrict, from Delmar to Willards, and every place in between. Thank you for listening and offering your ideas!

I plan on continuing to focus my efforts with the IPPS Mentoring Program, along with the other volunteer commitments I currently have.

I urge everyone to get out and vote in the Primary on June 24th and the General Election, on November 4th. If you don’t vote, you can’t make a difference. Be part of the solution and future you want to see!

Thank you,

Ron