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Many articles have been written regarding the change of leadership on the Hall County commission. Much of the concern appears to be directed at Commissioner Ashley Bell. His possible future political aspirations should not come as a surprise to any writer or editorial board who have followed the political history of Georgia.
What politician is not working toward his or her political future? The future may show real leadership in Mr. Bell, something all taxpayers can appreciate.
As far as the majority of the board's decision to eliminate a number of appointed positions is concerned, it is not uncommon in today's government to bring in new leadership when the majority of the board changes. The commission meeting on Jan. 6 was a good example of how difficult change in authority on any elected board can be.
Sometimes incumbent officials involved cannot see the warning signs that are obvious to the residents they represent. Good examples of some of these warning signs in Hall County are sewer installations without proper permits, questionable projects in the SPLOST VI vote, building of local parks before required emergency medical services are established, and most recently, the failure to communicate and include other elected officials in Hall County in the decision-making process.
Taxpayers were very clear in the last election when they decided a new direction was necessary. Commissioner Scott Gibbs recently stated that fiscal issues are his biggest concern. Not a bad idea when SPLOST funds and county funds in general are lacking.
As a taxpayer, I wish our commissioners the very best. And as an added suggestion, it may be appropriate to also follow Roberts Rules of Order when conducting a commission meeting in order to help maintain more reasonable input by all commissioners.
Terry Kuehn
Gainesville