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MIKE BORDES

District 5  -  Laconia Wards 1,3,4,5,6

Mr. Bordes is currently a state rep and is running for re-election.

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Mr. Bordes has our full support as he has represented his constituents in a reasonable and responsible manner.

Learn more below.

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About the Candidate

Candidate

Questionnaire

Incumbent Rep. Mike Bordes supported a return to sensible funding levels for the 2023 Belknap County budget, and deferred to the knowledge and wisdom of the county department heads - something more extreme Belknap County legislators chose to ignore.


Rep. Bordes sponsored or co-sponsored 17 bills this term, four of which were signed by Governor Sununu.

Increases in contract pay scale for the Belknap County Nursing Home were effective in Jan. 2024, and while the nursing home still struggles to find staff, the situation is not as dire as 2022, and the waiting list not as long.

In a recent Citizens Count survey, Rep. Bordes expressed support for the state “Education Freedom Accounts,” but also voiced support for accountability for that state money spent for private education.

He also recently explained why he’s running for a third term in a recent Laconia Daily Sun letter, Protect state from those who seek to divide and destroy it.

Homelessness continues to be a problem in Laconia, which Rep. Bordes recently posted about on his Facebook page:


“It is clear that simply throwing tax dollars at the problem of homelessness like some people want to do is not a sustainable solution. We need to address the root causes of homelessness in order to truly make a difference. By focusing on affordable housing, mental health and addiction services, and job training and education, we can help individuals in Laconia get back on their feet and build a brighter future for themselves. Let's not waste taxpayer dollars on temporary fixes, let's invest in long-term solutions that will make a real impact.”

An often related issue concerns opioids, which Mr. Bordes points out on his web page:


“The Opioid Epidemic is one the largest issues currently facing Laconia and all of New Hampshire. We need to fight the opioid epidemic through education, awareness, and action. This also means giving first responders the tools and support needed to assist them. We must also responsibly increase funding for our mental health and addiction programs throughout Laconia and the state.”
 

Questionnaire

In His Own Words . . .

Rep. Bordes returned his Citizens for Belknap Questionnaire with these responses:


1. As a candidate running for re-election , my desire to serve stems from a deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact in my community. I believe that effective representation is crucial in ensuring that the voices of all people are heard, and their needs are addressed. In the next legislative term, I hope to achieve meaningful progress in areas such as safety, education, and tax reduction. By working collaboratively with my colleagues.

2. Gunstock Recreation Area has been a beloved attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. In assessing its recent performance, I believe that Gunstock has done a commendable job in providing quality recreational opportunities for the community. If re-elected, I would strive to maintain its current direction while also exploring ways to enhance its offerings and accessibility. By investing in infrastructure improvements and marketing efforts, we can further solidify Gunstock as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. The Belknap County Nursing Home plays a vital role in providing care for elderly individuals in our community. With budget constraints posing a challenge, it is essential to find creative ways to stretch taxpayer dollars while still upholding our high standards of care. One approach could involve exploring cost-saving measures such as streamlining operations, leveraging technology, and negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers. Additionally, seeking out grants and partnerships with local organizations can help alleviate financial pressures and ensure the continued quality of care at the nursing home.

4. Improving county hiring practices is crucial in attracting top talent for positions within the nursing home, public safety, and administrative sectors. As a member of the Belknap County Delegation, I always advocate for transparent and merit-based recruitment processes that prioritize qualifications, experience, and diversity. By implementing thorough screening procedures, professional development opportunities, and competitive compensation packages, we can attract and retain qualified candidates who are dedicated to serving the community with excellence.

5. In terms of managing key county departments such as the nursing home, corrections facilities, and Gunstock Recreation Area, I believe that these services should remain within the control of Belknap County. By keeping these services public, we can ensure that they are accountable to the community and provide high-quality care for residents

6. The former 220-acre Laconia State School property holds great potential for redevelopment and revitalization. With its prime location and ample space, there are numerous opportunities to transform the site into a vibrant mixed-use development that benefits the community. Ideas for the property could include affordable housing, recreational amenities, green spaces, and cultural attractions. .

7. Addressing the opioid and drug problem in the region requires a multi-faceted approach that combines prevention, treatment, and enforcement measures. As a State Representative, I always prioritize initiatives that focus on expanding access to substance abuse treatment and recovery services, increasing resources for mental health support, and implementing evidence-based prevention programs in schools and communities.

8. The most important skill of being a good State Rep is effective communication. By listening attentively to the concerns and ideas of constituents, building relationships with colleagues across the political spectrum, and articulating a clear vision for positive change, a State Representative can facilitate dialogue, consensus-building, and progress on key issues. Effective communication fosters transparency, trust, and accountability in government, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions that reflect the needs and values of the community.

9.One of the biggest needs in Belknap County is affordable housing. Many residents struggle to find housing that is both safe and affordable, leading to homelessness and housing instability. As a county leader, I would work towards implementing policies that encourage the development of more affordable housing options, as well as work with local organizations to provide support services for those experiencing homelessness.

10.While I have received some funding from outside the state, a lot of my support comes from within our community

11. When it comes to the size of our county government, I believe that it should stay the same. I think that our current government structure is effective in meeting the needs of our community, and I would work to ensure that it remains transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of our residents.

12. This was asked previously but In terms of managing key county departments such as the nursing home, corrections facilities, and Gunstock Recreation Area, I believe that these services should remain within the control of Belknap County. By keeping these services public, we can ensure that they are accountable to the community and provide high-quality care for residents.

13. One of the key things that distinguishes me from other candidates is my commitment to community engagement and collaboration. I believe that effective leadership involves listening to the needs of all residents regardless of political party, working together to find solutions, and building partnerships with local organizations to create positive change in our community.

14. In terms of endorsements, I am proud to have received the support of Governor Chris Sununu. His endorsement speaks to my commitment to serving the people of New Hampshire with honesty, integrity, and dedication.

15, I have lived in Belknap County for 8 years, and in that time, I have grown to love this community and its residents. I am committed to working towards a brighter future for Belknap County.

 

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