Words from the Chamber

Beginning on a personal note, I would like to thank the many of you that voiced support and offered prayers on my behalf during last week’s health battle that I endured. After a couple of very rough days, recovery has been constant and gaining momentum such that I expect to be back to 100 percent by the time this is published.

Recently, I have performed a bit of research into the idea of consolidating local governments into a single, more efficeint and effective entity. I have had some communication with a consultant with experience and expertise in this arena and I have had quite a few local residents provide input and voice their support.

Early in the process, to determine if it is even desirable, should be a basic, independent study by contracted consultants with knowledge and experience in performing such analysis. I have contacted such a firm and obtained an estimate of $17-20,000 fee to perform a study. Costs are somewhat dependent upon the number of meetings required and the length of time to gather the appropriate data. In my opinion, this cost should be shared by the County and Town governments to avoid any claims of bias from one entity or the other.

At some point, the Commission on Local Government gets involved and crunches its own numbers. Their study may piggyback on the independent study but would provide additional credibility and perhaps additional perspective should the recommendations of the intial study be questioned by anyone.

Assuming that the results of such studies indicate that there are advantages in proceeding toward consolidation, it can only occur if the governing bodies (Town and County) reach a Consolidation Agreement. This could come to be by either a voluntary effort between the two bodies or via a citizen petition initiative. Once the agreement is reached, it is subject to review by the Commission on Local Government, a further review and approval by the courts and then approval by a referendum of the voters of the governed constituencies.

The process is long, drawn out and requires a significant degree of agreement between various parties. From the perspective that I have gained via my efforts, my educated guess is that those in the County government would be open to pursuing this as a potential benefit for our local citizenry. Residents of our community have repeatedly expressed their belief that this approach would be welcomed and public support would likely be overwhelming. Over the years, the Town Council has apparently been the one player hesitant to pursue considerations along this line.

Although I do not understand the basis for apparent opposition to this by Council members, I do not wish to attack their position without a better comprehension of their reluctance. With many months between now and the November elections (the final one where all Council seats will be on the ballot), there is time to determine if persuasion of incumbents or the support of new blood is the best approach. Please join me in being diligent in this determination.

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