Matt Keating, a candidate for Natrona County Board of Commissioners, recently answered questions about his candidacy. Keating emphasized the importance of supporting economic growth and local businesses in Natrona County.

Challenges Facing Constituents

Keating noted that the Natrona County Fire Protection District’s budget has declined due to the annexation of high-value assets, which has reduced critical revenue. He believes that promoting smart and informed conversations about business development proposals is crucial to maintaining essential public services like fire protection.

Keating cited the example of Radiant, a business that could have brought hundreds of millions of dollars in investment and created hundreds of jobs if it had been welcomed into the community. He argued that this type of growth would have strengthened the tax base and helped address the Fire District’s financial challenges in a sustainable way.

Addressing Challenges

Keating suggested that supporting business growth in the community would increase the tax base, providing the necessary funding for public services without raising taxes. He noted that raising taxes, as proposed by the Fire District, is not a viable solution and that blue states’ policies of raising taxes have driven businesses to more tax-friendly states.

Keating emphasized the importance of creating an environment where businesses can invest, grow, and contribute to a stronger, more sustainable future. He believes that good-paying jobs give families stability, and new businesses drive innovation and create opportunities in the community.

Qualifications

Keating has 14 years of experience as a Natrona County Commissioner and is committed to advocating for the fire service and responsible economic development. He will work to strengthen the local economy, protect the rights of the people he serves, and support smart business growth.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.