After being part of a community
which faced similar problems, I feel I have a unique perspective
on how to address these problems we face. The community has lost
faith in the people who run the county. They don’t think their
voices are heard and they probably are correct. I believe it is
the responsibility of the County Commission to give an outlet
which gives people a way to be heard.
Accessibility to county representatives is paramount. I
propose we set up a quarterly meeting at the memorial building
on a week night and let people come and meet their
commissioners. Keep it informal, allowing people to see that we
are here to help them in any capacity that is relevant the
position of commissioner. Invite all other elected officials to
participate and meet the people of our county so trust can be
restored.
I have seen allot of proposals and goals, but no
realistic way to implement them. I want to begin by reevaluating
goals and proposals and redirect our attention to those things
which need to be addresses now. Prioritize goals and map out for
the public the way we plan to make things happen.
Our children are growing up and leaving the area, not just
because we have no good jobs for them, but because they are not
proud of this community like they should be. We must make this
focal point a priority and find new avenues to retain our next
generation or our county will fall.
We are not just a county of people, but a community. Bringing
everyone together for a common goal cannot be accomplished
unless you truly believe in people. I feel that way about
everyone in this county and I will work to renew that concept.
I believe most people have good hearts, but they become
skeptical and cynical when they are lied to and disappointed
over and over again. I vow to bring back this concept and
restore the trust that’s been lost and make Summers County a
community which our children will be proud to have been raised
in.
