By Dr. Rose O. Hayes
May 17, 2023
I just yesterday read the Aiken Chronicles guest editorial, April 10th City Council Meeting Recap, by Kelly Cornelius. It is depressing to see what has become of the relations between Aiken city elected representatives and the residents that are supposed to be served.
I remember, warmly, the days when comments from the public were not only welcome but requested by Mayor Fred Cavanaugh and council members Dick Smith, Jane Vaughters, Dick Dewar and Reggie Ebner. There were even occasions when the mayor and those council members walked through our neighborhoods to enhance their understanding of issues brought to their attention by concerned Aiken residents.
I hope the upcoming 2024 elections see the restoration of those happier more constructive days. If you share my hope, go vote and urge everyone you know to do likewise.
Dr. Rose O. Hayes
Director, WTT&D
Amen, Sister Rose.
The attitude of City Council can be pretty well summarized in a statement made by Hizhonor, Mayor Osbon, at a recent City Council meeting. A person rose to speak during a public comment period, and had the temerity to politely disagree with Council’s position on a particular matter. Hizhonor’s response to that person was: “I don’t have to listen to you.”
But he does have to listen. He’s a paid public servant!! SERVANT being the key word. Mayor O needs to either be informed of this or reminded.
I agree wholeheartedly with Dr. Hayes. Ca we find some likely candidates?Gail King
Mayor King sure has a nice ring to it!
In my opinion, our former Mayor seemed to have the interest of Aiken’s residents above all else.
Unlike today’s
Who?
What we need now are candidates.
Exactly. Until these so called leaders, and I use that term loosely, are replaced, Aiken will continue to be a battleground between concerned citizens and the current administration