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In recent years, Fayette County has faced a series of controversies that highlight a troubling trend: the lack of transparency in our county government. As a candidate for Fayette County Commissioner District #2, I believe it is crucial for our officials to operate with openness and honesty. The community deserves to be fully informed and engaged in decisions that affect our daily lives and our county’s future.
The Animal Shelter Controversy
One of the most glaring examples of this lack of transparency is the ongoing controversy surrounding the new Fayette County Animal Shelter. The shelter has faced numerous allegations of mismanagement, including inadequate care for animals and financial irregularities.
Despite repeated calls from the public for a thorough investigation and accountability, the county commissioners have been slow to act. These actions erodes public trust and raises questions about what is being hidden from view.
In fact, the main engine of change has been a dedicated group of ladies who remain relentless. It has been their persistence that identified the major issues with the shelter and pressured the county to recently hire a qualified animal shelter director.
The QDS Data Center Controversy
Another contentious issue is the proposed QDS Data Center. This project has sparked significant concern among residents, particularly regarding its environmental impact and the potential strain on local infrastructure.
Over 100 households are now being told that they will have powerline towers installed on their properties. The health risks and property value drops are simply too much for the residents to endure; many of whom are senior citizens.
Many community members feel that the decision-making process has been opaque, with insufficient public consultation and a lack of clear communication from county officials. The failure of both city and county officials to hold meaningful dialogues with residents who are affected seems callous at best and negligent at worst.
The Starr’s Mill Gas Station Project
The Starr’s Mill gas station project is yet another example where transparency has been sorely lacking. The project was approved despite strong opposition from residents who were worried about its impact on traffic, local businesses, scenery, and the environment.
Large gas tanks being in close proximity to one of our fresh water supplies seems needlessly risky. Additionally, the construction is in direct conflict with the county’s Comprehensive Zoning Plan. The approval process seemed rushed and lacking in proper public input, leading many to question whether their voices are truly being heard.
The Need for Transparency
These controversies underscore the urgent need for greater transparency in our county government. Transparency is not just a buzzword; it is a fundamental principle of good governance. All three of these projects lack long-term impact studies conducted by subject matter experts.
If they have been conducted, those results have not been readily available to the citizens of Fayette County. When officials operate transparently, they build trust with the community, ensure accountability, and make better decisions that reflect the public’s needs and values.
To address and inform the public about all issues that directly impact them, I propose the following steps:
Step 1: Transparent Communication Strategy
Establish a comprehensive plan detailing how and when information will be communicated to the public. Ensure the plan includes traditional media, social media, community meetings, and the county’s website.
Step 2: Proactive Public Engagement
Schedule and advertise public meetings to discuss the controversies openly. Use these forums to provide factual information, answer questions, and gather community feedback. Organize smaller, informal gatherings in various neighborhoods to discuss these issues directly with residents. This could include town halls, coffee meetings, and attending local community events.
Step 3: Information Dissemination
Website Updates: Redesign our official county website. Create dedicated pages on the county’s official website for each controversy. Include background information, current status, FAQs, and ways for residents to get involved or voice their concerns. Utilize social media platforms to share updates, dispel rumors, and provide clear and concise information. Regular posts, live Q&A sessions, and community polls can engage a broader audience. Issue regular press releases to local newspapers, radio stations, and TV channels. Host media briefings to ensure accurate reporting and address any misinformation.
Step 4: Collaborative Problem Solving
Establish advisory committees comprised of community members, experts, and stakeholders for each issue. These committees can provide recommendations and act as a bridge between the public and the commissioners. Use surveys to gather public opinion and ensure that decisions are reflective of the community’s preferences and concerns.
Step 5: Continuous Monitoring and Feedback
Provide ongoing updates about the progress and any changes related to these issues. Keep the community informed about the outcomes of public meetings, advisory committee recommendations, and any actions taken by the board. Create multiple channels for residents to provide feedback, such as online forms, suggestion boxes at public buildings, and dedicated email addresses.
Fayette County is at a crossroads. We can either continue down a path of opaque decision-making and eroded public trust, or we can embrace transparency and build a stronger, more inclusive community. I believe in the latter and I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our government serves the people openly and honestly.
Bobby Jones
CDR USN (Ret.)
Candidate for Fayette County Commissioner District #2
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