To the Editor,

We want to thank all who participated in the commissioners’ meeting, both for and against, the commissioners’ compensation package and the discretionary funds process, which was an awesome show of democracy in action. We apologize to those who could not obtain seating or hear the presentations.

The commissioners’ defense strategy fell short.

They failed to inform their spokesmen that the issue was process, not use of the discretionary funds; they failed to present any defense of their elaborate pay and compensation benefits package; they failed to ensure their spokesmen thanked the right people — citizens who work and pay taxes — for the funds they received, a glaring, surprising and strategic error; their spokesmen highlighted another target of opportunity, how taxpayer money is being spent — we are not sure the taxpaying citizens are thrilled to fund trips to the beach and Virginia; they hid behind their elected office, choosing not to respond while compelling taxpaying citizens to carry the wrong message against the wrong issue.

Citizens, note the flaws in their defense. Do you see a failure in leadership? Our commissioners refuse to personally defend their own policies in the public forum? Take note that the commissioners’ spokesmen gave praise and glory to either a commissioner by name, the chairman by name, or the commissioners as a whole. I do not recall one spokesmen giving praise to the citizens who work and pay taxes to fund these projects. Citizens, if anyone deserves praise, it is you. And we applaud you, the taxpaying citizens, for it is you who fund the volunteer fire departments, church and community center, not the chairman and commissioners. We do not question funds for firemen, sports groups or aid in our county’s support. However, we request that our elected commissioners follow democratic principles and processes prior to distribution of any of your tax funds.

The lead commissioner’s compensation for what is defined as a part-time job: $26,829 salary/travel, plus health, dental, life insurance, 457 plan, cell phone and iPad — all paid by you.

Lynn Locklear

Phil Locklear

Citizens for Integrity in Government