Elect Sonny McDowell to Grovetown City Council

Our community lost a beloved, dedicated public servant when Grovetown City Councilwoman Margie Adams passed away in February.

She was a model of servant leadership. Whether it was organizing her summer camp for children or collecting items for soldiers overseas, Adams worked hardest to personally raise the funds necessary. She led by example.

Three men are now asking Grovetown voters to grant them an opportunity to complete Adams' unexpired term. It's not possible for anyone to replace such a remarkable woman, but the three candidates are some of the best hopefuls running in any local race.

Though it makes the choice difficult, it is heartening to encounter a political race in which any of the candidates would be a superb choice. All three men bring unique skills to the office; because there can only be one winner, the two who are not elected should soon seek other opportunities to serve.

Of the three on Tuesday's ballot, we recommend the election of Sonny McDowell.

Sincere, honest and thoughtful, McDowell first became involved in public issues with discussion of consolidation. Outside county officials, he has amassed more knowledge of the proposal than anyone, and is uniquely equipped to help Grovetown as the city negotiates its future relationship with the county.

And negotiation will be necessary. The city cannot continue its rapid growth without infrastructure provided by the county, and compromises will be needed. McDowell's experience in private business, civic leadership and government study will give the city a firmer footing in those discussions.

"We're all interdependent," McDowell says. "We haven't always had a good relationship, but we need to get over our differences and work together."

That's the right attitude, and Sonny McDowell is the right man for the job. We recommend his election Tuesday to Grovetown City Council.