Cross defeat could also mean end to consolidation

Editor:

Unlike many political contests around the country, the competition between Ron Cross and John Hayes for the Columbia County Commission chairmanship offers vivid choices for the voters. Perhaps Cross will dispense with his politically self-serving photo on the county's "Endless Opportunities" newsletter.

Cross's assertion that he has tackled tough issues such as "possible" consolidation should have been phrased, "urged acceptance of consolidation." His disrespect for the people and their elected representatives of Grovetown and Harlem in his efforts toward consolidation is in direct contrast to Hayes' positive statements regarding the two towns within our county and his stated opposition to consolidation.

A decisive loss for Cross in the upcoming contest could well be interpreted as proof that voters are not interested in consolidation or Cross's proffered costly studies to keep consolidation discussions alive.

What Columbia County does not need at its helm is a builder - active or retired. While builders are good folks, just earning a living, it cannot ever be denied that there is a serious conflict of interest when a "building-boom" county like ours is headed by a builder. It is an accidental (but lucky) aspect of Hayes' candidacy that he is neither a builder nor a Realtor.

And for those folks who have been complaining about the new library's abbreviated hours, perhaps they can influence a successful Chairman Hayes to dispense with "Endless Opportunities" and channel the thousands of dollars into an increase in library hours and staff.

Gene Rickaby, Martinez