Two Weeks Away

Two weeks from today is Election Day – But if you ask someone who is not politically motivated – They could care less.

Indeed, the voting public has every reason to feel disenfranchised, but they also have every reason to be motivated and learn about those seeking our votes.

It is our obligation to research all the candidates seeking our vote, and consider all the variables.

While there are many town races with a lot of them being unopposed, all eyes will be on the Sullivan County Legislature.

Sullivan County has been going through some very hard times during the past few years, some of it because of our lack of leadership, and the rest due to circumstances beyond our control.

We are still one of the unhealthiest and poorest counties in New York State.

Our population is dramatically changing as many lifelong residents have moved out or are planning on doing so. Foreclosures are at record highs. And, it is increasingly harder and harder for all of us to make ends meet. The list goes on and on.

We all know how bad things are in Sullivan County, but we also must acknowledge how good things are as well.

As taxpayers we all expect municipal services, unfortunately those services must be paid for from our tax dollars.

Running a government is very difficult.

With a resort casino on the way and other forms of development on our horizon – We must consider if we are finally on the path to recovery.

It is very difficult to make change happen. Good caring people are often beaten down. That is why – I admire anyone who comes forward and decides to run for public office.

Sadly two of our most honest and hardworking legislators are not seeking reelection – I am speaking of Cora Edwards and Cindy Gieger – They both witnessed firsthand how difficult it is to go up against an “Ole Boys Club” and how certain people will do anything to muzzle and smear caring public servants who are looking out for and representing the good of the public.

Unfortunately – the one race that is being unopposed is the legislative seat in District One held by Legislature Chairman Scott Samuelson. It would have been interesting to see Samuelson debate the issues, and discuss his leadership and lack of leadership skills.

The Charter Review Commission which I am a member has been looking into dramatic changes in the way Sullivan County is being run.

They are looking into a County Executive form of government, staggering the terms of legislators, and term limits. No matter what the recommendations are, the legislature will have the final say if these issues are brought before the public for a vote.

So, when you see one of the legislative candidates ask them their opinion on County Executive, staggering terms, and term limits.

There has also been great deal of discussion as to what power legislators have in the day to day operation of Sullivan County government. There is an argument that everything has to go through the hired County Manager.

Last week the NAACP held a candidates night and it was enlightening to watch the candidates discuss the issues. It was also interesting to see which candidates attended the event and which ones didn’t.

The Sullivan County Democrat, River Reporter, and the Times Herald Record have all opened up their pages to the candidates.

Thunder Radio is holding debates between all candidates running for the Sullivan County Legislature. They are available online at
http://thunder102podomatic.podomatic.com/

Please – ask questions of the candidates and do your own research. No one should be elected or reelected because of popularity. All of the candidates are easily accessible and every vote will matter. There are no Federal or State elections to motivate the electorate.

Please take these elections seriously.

Bill Liblick has made a name for himself on National TV Talk Shows where he spouted his outspoken views from the front row. Now he offers you his opinion every week in the “MOUTH THAT ROARS” Column in THE SULLIVAN COUNTY POST.