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Some Commissioners Attack Free Speech
The county political machine seems to feel that December
is the best time to push through their anti-taxpayer measures. You will
recall that last December they gave us the infamous racetrack deal. This December:
they removed the four lot limit which was enacted to mitigate school
overcrowding; and, they gave the Sheriff another $250,000 to build yet
another racetrack!
But some of our Commissioners saved the "best" for last. At the
Intergovernmental Committee they passed a resolution to prohibit public
comment on non-agenda items at Commission meetings. (This item was not even
listed on the IG Committee agenda). Since they control the Commission agenda,
this is tantamount to eliminating most public input and criticism at
Commission meetings. This anti-free speech effort was led by Holden Lail
and supported by Commissioners Burchfield, Farmer, Hargis, Lewis, Proffitt
and Walker.
The speakers at the Commission meetings appear on a videotape which is
broadcast throughout the county. The county political machine has been stung
by the criticism offered by these speakers.
At the meeting of the full Commission on December 21, in
front of room overflowing with outraged citizens, the Commission decided
to set up a special Committee to look further at this matter. Hopefully,
this is the bureaucratic kiss of death for this ill considered proposal.
Citizens for Better Government -
www.blounttn.net
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