To the Editor,

I attended the county commissioners meeting held Sept. 4 and I was not fooled by Mr. Tom Taylor’s attempt to move toward fiscal reform.

The recommendation to conduct a study is simply a clever ruse designed to lure citizens into complacency on the issue. My observations of the county commissioners’ demeanor and behavior during the meeting revealed they are disillusioned and out of touch with the citizens. Anyone in attendance would have been appalled at Mr. Jerry Stephens’ attempt to defend what is a defenseless position. None of his arguments were justified. If his constituents have a need, present it to all commissioners, defend it, articulate why it deserves support, and then ask for a vote.

Mr. Raymond Cummings stated that if it had not been for his discretionary spending, the ballfield in Union Chapel would not have been built. I disagree with his assertion. If he had presented it before all commissioners and asked for their support, I am sure he could have won a majority vote to support his motion. However, the problem is not the ballfield, but the lack of oversight.

The commissioners don’t get it. No study is required. The citizens of the county have already completed the study. The commissioners are overpaid, under-performing, and abusing taxpayer dollars for personal gain. Mr. Noah Woods, show some leadership. Strike now and make the necessary motions for fiscal reform. You are warned not to claim victory from any results of a study forced upon you by the citizens. Directing this study only serves to demonstrate the weakness and ineptness of the county commissioners.

Citizens, all the commissioners need to be replaced. They have been there far too long and have lost the thirst, drive, and ambition to serve their constituency. The conduct of the commissioners meeting is factitious and void of sincerity. Do you know they do not recognize the citizens in attendance and thank them for being there and participating in government?

Citizens, start now to identify those in the community to replace these legacy commissioners. It is time for new faces, fresh ideas, and people of integrity who want to move the county forward. Our county deserves better.

Lynn E. Locklear

Citizens for Integrity in Government