Beaufort County Council Votes on November 5: A Call for Change
As residents of Beaufort County prepare for the upcoming election on November 5, there’s a growing buzz surrounding local politics. Many citizens find themselves feeling a mix of frustration and hope when it comes to the current state of the County Council. So, let’s dive into what’s happening, shall we?
The Call for Transparency
According to recent discussions, many people in our community echo a simple yet powerful sentiment: it’s time to vote the bums out. This phrase perfectly encapsulates the feelings towards some incumbents on the County Council, especially after a troubling incident that raised eyebrows and resulted in mounting criticism. It all started with an investigation into the county’s financial practices, which continued over five long years and cost taxpayers a pretty penny.
Shockingly, the council tried to keep findings under wraps, only offering oral updates instead of full reports. At one point, the council even attempted to limit public access to just a brief six-page summary of the investigation. State law doesn’t require a unanimous vote to make these records public, though the council insisted otherwise. The lack of clarity and transparency left residents feeling in the dark, and many are demanding answers.
Who’s Facing the Voters?
As election day approaches, it’s clear that there’s more than just dissatisfaction; there are viable new candidates ready to step in. Three incumbents are on the ballot, with the possibility of change. Out of these candidates, only three have publicly shown willingness to support transparency regarding the investigation report. They are David Bartholomew, Paula Brown, and Tom Reitz. However, only Bartholomew, Brown, Reitz, and another candidate, Anna Maria “Tab” Tabernik, are openly voicing their concerns about the council’s actions.
The Recommendations
In light of the ongoing issues with incumbent performance, let’s take a closer look at two districts where a change could be significant:
District 1
In District 1, we have a choice between incumbent Democrat Gerald Dawson and Republican challenger Adam Biery. Recent history shows Dawson distancing himself from the community, effectively failing to respond to any inquiries made by local media. This lack of communication hasn’t gone unnoticed.
On the flip side, Biery has made it clear that he prioritizes rebuilding public trust in the council. His focus areas include responsible growth management, transparency, and infrastructure improvements. Biery promises to ensure that information about council decisions is readily available online—something that could foster a much-needed culture of openness.
District 7
Over in District 7, the situation is a bit similar. Here, incumbent Republican Logan Cunningham faces off against Democrat Sarah McCarty. While Cunningham is acknowledged for at least responding to survey inquiries, it seems to be the bare minimum required of a public official. McCarty, however, brings a fresh perspective, emphasizing the need for environmental protection, responsible development, and resilient infrastructure.
Her thoughtful approach signifies that she’s ready to address the community’s pressing concerns comprehensively. Having experience in health care and academia, McCarty understands the importance of transparent and respectful dialogue, making her an intriguing choice for many voters.
It’s Time for Change
With elections just around the corner, it’s clear that many Beaufort County residents are ready for a shake-up in leadership. The forthcoming vote presents an opportunity to select representatives who prioritize transparency and advocate for the community’s needs, rather than hiding behind closed doors. Our collective hope is for a council that invites participation, fosters dialogue, and ultimately works for the best interests of Beaufort County.
As you prepare for November 5, consider your choices thoughtfully. After all, our community’s future hinges upon the decisions we make today.
