George James has what it takes for Grovetown

Editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the citizens of Grovetown for allowing me to serve them on the City Council the past eight years. I have met so many wonderful people in my duties on Council, and want to thank everyone who has supported me and the many efforts that went to task.

The city of Grovetown has come a long way and accomplished so much over the years and much of the praise must go to the great folks that work for the city. Much is expected of these people, and they fulfill many difficult jobs with minimal rewards.

As Curtis Newman and I leave office the end of this year, I can proudly say we leave the city in sound fiscal shape. For the first time in the citys history we have $1 million in reserve funds, not quite the goal of six months operating expenses. I urge the next Council to continue the policy of fiscal responsibility.

The next major hurdle the city faces is the coming local option sales tax negotiations with the Columbia County commissioners. There are commissioners and others that would cut our sales tax percentage based on population. However, population is only one of many criteria set forth in state law that guides these negotiations. It is imperative that the citizens of Columbia Countys muni-cipalities contact their state legislators and express support for legislation forbidding county governments from adversely cutting cities sales tax money.

The citizens of Grove-town must carefully consider the candidates for Council in the coming election this Tuesday, Nov. 6. One candidate has the experience needed to back the citys government through these tough negotiations ahead. He presently serves the city on its Planning and Zoning Board, sits on the Columbia Countys Recreation Board, and has previously served the city of Grovetown on the City Council. I support and urge all voters to support George James for City Council. I have discussed at length with James the problems and adversities that face the city of Grovetown, and I am convinced he has a grasp and an understanding of what it takes to help us succeed in the future.

Again, I thank the citizens of Grovetown for their support and to ask for their help once more in my support for George James for City Council of Grovetown.

Mark Devoti

Member, Grovetown City Council