To the Editor,

Thomas Jefferson once said, “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.”

The Friends of Philadelphus initiated a petition on behalf of all Robeson County citizens to demand commissioners enact fiscal reforms. To succeed, the petition requires broad support and endorsement of citizens from across the county and all walks of life. Noticeably missing is the public endorsement of this petition by our “so-called leaders.” Where are the mayors, town and city councilpersons, Lumbee tribal leaders, our state representatives, congressmen, senators, who are all elected leaders of various segments of our county? Where are our church leaders? Where are the business leaders? Where are those who seek office and a leadership role in the county, Lumbee Tribe, towns, and cities? The citizens ask you to speak out on fiscal reform.

This petition is either right or wrong and you are either for it or against it. Either way, true leaders speak up and lead from the front. All we hear is silence from “so-called leaders” and silence is a vote for the status quo. The county commissioners are betting on the status quo.

An editorial in The Robesonian from 10 years ago states, “Budget woes have commissioners eyeing salary, discretionary fund.” Commissioner Noah Woods said that, “although he would cut his $700-per-month salary, he would rather cut the $500-per-month travel budget.” Mr. Woods made that statement 10 years ago. Citizens, we need your support to get fiscal reform. It is obvious that we the citizens need to lead the commissioners to fiscal reform and accountability.

Citizens, do not be thwarted by this lack of leadership. Continue to pass the word to friends, neighbors, family, and those you pass on the street to go to the link below and support fiscal reform: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/commissioners-need-to-be-held-accountable/signatures.html

This petition is like a ship with sails. Many of you are working hard to fill the sails with air and it is slow and hard. With persistence we will prevail and have the support to present this to Commissioner Noah Woods for action. Notice those who lead during this period. Notice how many “so-called leaders” jump on board once the sails are full. Take note of their names. We don’t need extra weight once the sails are full; we need help to fill the sails now.

The citizens matter.

Lynn E. Locklear

Citizens for Integrity in Government