To the Editor:

I am writing today about the recent public discussion of commissioner meetings in Haywood County. As a part of the 47th Senate District in McDowell County, an N.C. Senate candidate and current county commissioner, I have experienced in McDowell what Haywood is now cutting its teeth on.

First, let me say that civil discourse is most appropriate in representative government. In order to earn that appropriate environment, citizens must believe that their voice is being heard, followed through with courtesy, respect and that representatives remain honest and accessible to their constituency.

I have experienced this personally in the county where I serve in elected office. McDowell County enacted a simple public access viewing of commissioner meetings in the late 1990s. Through experience we have expanded and raised the level of quality in-house to meet a reasonable level of transparency and disclosure to our citizens. Let me say that we can do more and have plans to do just that.

Unfortunately, there is a level of mistrust in government at city hall, the courthouse, Raleigh and Washington that has rightfully triggered distrust and tough questions. As I travel through Haywood and other mountain counties, I find many folks dissatisfied with the poor attitudes and intrusion of government into their lives. I agree. Power is corrupting when power is used to manipulate and deceive people. I am also convinced that tough questions, intentional communication, along with a better understanding of public policy and current issues remain central for effective leadership. The responsibility is in the hands of elected officials and staff for implementation.

I sincerely hope that transparent, accountable and effective limited government will rule the day in this nation and our communities.

Andy Webb

McDowell County