In 2019 my husband and I were invited to be part of the team to rework and update the Washington County Code. We attended many meetings, giving up time and making a 65+ mile round trip as did many others. We went over the code ponderously and to make recommendations to the Commissioners as is proper.
At the County Commissioners’ meeting of on 3/15/2021, our newest Commissioner had quietly added to the meeting’s agenda a vote on whether or not to have a public hearing on the proposed changes. A public hearing, where citizens get to have input, had been scheduled in 2020, but was canceled because of the “pandemic”. One lone commissioner took it upon himself to hide his action by not even notifying the other two commissioners, let alone the public who will be affected. What a blatant disregard for We the People and those of the team who put time and effort on the project. Out of around 7,000 Washington County citizens who pay taxes, support our schools, the hospital, the fire department, and so on, AND, make our economy work, one lone commissioner has the self importance to decide what is best for our county and all those who reside here.
You, Mr. Haines, are not our daddy!
Why wouldn’t the County Commissioners want public input on such an important step that will affect all of us in the future? Our State and County are growing, and we need a code that will meet these future challenges, not a code of 40 years ago.
I suggest both Mr. Haines and Mr. Marvin educate themselves on the State code, the constitution and the democratic process. Are these gentlemen being advised and coached by an unelected “invisible influence” I hope not. Do the work you were elected to do. Represent the people; do not dictate.
