Editor:

Columbia County needs a fiscal conservative to serve as a watchdog for the taxpaying public, someone with a fresh perspective who will not mindlessly follow the “business as usual” approach taken by governing bodies that are out of touch with the average citizen.

I urge all residents in Commission District 2 who are interested in restoring honesty and integrity to the seat to cast their vote for Lee Benedict on July 31.

I find Benedict to be a straight-shooter, someone who will not simply “go along to get along” when it comes to matters of principle.

Editor:

In the July 8 News-Times editorial, “No to T-SPLOST, yes to Sunday sales,” it is correctly pointed out that raising the sales tax from 7 percent to 8 percent is an increase of 14 percent. If that were the true cost to the consumer, it would scare anyone from voting for T-SPLOST.

However, I believe it should also have shown the affect that T-SPLOST will have on the consumer’s dollar. A dollar spent would cost the consumer $1.08 rather than $1.07.

Editor:

Voters in Columbia County districts 1 and 4 will be able to cast ballots for their school board races whether they vote on the Republican, Democrat or non-partisan ballot. Our school system is a vital part of this county. It is often cited by residents as the main reason for residing here.

I would like to offer my endorsement for candidates in both of these elections. Roxanne Whitaker, the incumbent from District 4, is the best choice among the three candidates. It has been my privilege to serve with her during my tenure on the board.

Editor:

I strongly support and endorse Jason Troiano as the next chief magistrate

judge.

I have known Troiano for more that 30-plus years. He comes from a fine family and his roots are here in Columbia County. He is a hard-working individual and has many years of experience from being a prosecutor for several years, to opening his own private practice. He is highly respected by his peers and was asked by the current chief magistrate judge to serve as an associate magistrate judge for the past few years.