Public's mission: Just show up

Attendance has been low at three sessions for the public to learn about Columbia Countys fire services study.

Two county-run forums barely drew three dozen citizens between them; another meeting at the Leah Volunteer Fire Department was slightly better attended.

Why the collective yawn? The proposed change in fire service could mean an increase in property taxes, with elimination of fire subscription fees. The plan is a potentially huge change for Columbia County citizens, yet thus far only a tiny fraction have cared enough to hear about the process.

With so little attendance on such a vital issue, the record doesnt bode well for Monday nights public meeting on an issue of decidedly less importance.

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Set for 6:30 p.m. at Evans High School, the session will provide information and seek comments on the idea of voters electing the chairman of the school board, abandoning the present system of school trustees choosing among themselves annually for their leader.

Voters in last years Republican primary straw poll overwhelmingly favored the change. As a result, turnout at Mondays meeting will be a test not only of public interest, but of Columbia County GOPs ability to keep the issue alive.