Gathered in a packed room at the Cetronia Fire Company’s Social Hall – minutes from where he grew up – Lehigh County Commissioner Brad Osborne announced his candidacy to become the Lehigh County’s next executive.

“People want their government to work for them,” Osborne said. “I will bring a disciplined and transparent government with a ‘let’s get it done’ attitude to Lehigh County.”

Marty Nothstein, chair of the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners and Olympic gold medalist, introduced Osborne.

“I’ve experienced first-hand how fantastic a job Brad has done in leading our board as chairman. His professionalism and leadership has led us through some difficult topics with great results. I’ve seen Brad work tirelessly to get consensus and arrive at a solution and our board and the community are all better for it,” Nothstein said.

Osborne then took to the stage, both casting a vision for the future and calling for an end to petty political game:

“What I’ve witnessed in my five years in county government is there is too heavy a dose of politics and too little planning and execution,” Osborne said. “Instead of asking for more money, we should look for ways to innovate our way to excellence in service, and reduce the tax burden on our working families.”

Osborne laid out four initiatives he would pursue as county executive:

•Restoring transparency and accountability to the county government,

•Develop a 4-year financial strategic plan for the county,

•Support the work of the county officials as they service the people of Lehigh County and

•Support the business community and attract new businesses to the county.

Throughout this speech, Osborne emphasized collaboration and called for an end to complacency.

“It’s time to shake things up. It’s time to get out of our comfort zones. Results count, excuses don’t.”