Wednesday, July 24, 2002

Four years ago I ran on a platform of "Reclaiming our county." As you probably recall, rezonings and rampant development were threatening to turn Fayette County into a carbon copy of Fulton county. Certain developers got preferred treatment and the average citizen did not have a voice. Too many decisions were made behind closed doors and too many special favors were granted.

I have been an ardent supporter of the current land use plan and as a result, I believe we have seen a return to the quality of life that most of us moved here to enjoy.

The county has continued to develop, but at a sensible rate that provides for planning and infrastructure needs. In fact, a June 13, 2002, poll reported in the AJC indicated that 61 percent of Fayette County's citizens give our land use plan and zonings a positive rating. This was the highest favorable rating in all of the 15 metro Atlanta counties.

We have developed the first long-range planning document in this county's history. This document, the Capital Improvement Plan/CIP, gives our elected officials a "road map" to consult in deciding the needs, costs and priorities for future planning. For the first time, any citizen can look at this plan and have a clear understanding of what large capital improvements are being planned and budgeted for. Such items may include roads, recreation, fire/emergency services, etc.

I have been very fiscally conservative and extremely responsible with your tax dollar. We have managed to provide quality services while holding down the cost of county government.

For example, in 2001, the total amount spent by the county government for its population of 91,263 was $486 per person. During that same time Fayetteville spent $851 per person for its 11,148 population; Tyrone spent $626 per person for its 3,916 people; and Peachtree City spent $581 per person for each of its 31,580 people.

When one considers that included in the county's cost is the requirement that we must make available to every city and county citizen such services as recreation, fire and emergency services, library, law enforcement, public health, it is easy to see that your money is spent conservatively.

I believe this is a critical time for our county's future. There are currently two people seeking to take my place as your commissioner. Neither one of those individuals has stated what they are actually wanting to change.

We have a great county. What would they do differently? In doing differently, what would be the end results? Where have I failed to accomplish exactly what I was elected to do?These are all questions that I urge you to consider as you cast your ballot.

Vague promises are easily made, but proven leadership is easily measured. I ask for your support and your vote on Aug. 20.Together, let's stay the course.

Linda Wells

electlindawells.org

Back to Opinion Home Page | Back to the top of the page