I was asked for my “thoughts on other tactics and techniques that can help us get to more rational and open public discussion and decision making for our county.”
Forty-five minutes drive in 3 compass directions from Elbert County bring one to growing communities hosting a variety of job opportunities, renewable water sources, vibrant real estate markets, hospitals and health care facilities, medical specialists, fast transportation arterials, light industry and commerce, etc. Evidence suggests these adjacent communities have benefitted from rational decision making for their communities. The standards of living there look good.
In contrast, Elbert County remains heavily influenced, if not controlled, by a small group of xenophobic luddites determined to destroy the potential for growth, substantive commerce, light industry, renewable water, and any semblance of a modern economy.
A majority of commissioner candidates in this years election promise more of the same.
So, the answer to the question posed seems clear. Send the luddites back whence they came, and keep them from continuing to influence the governance of Elbert County. They had their shot, and Elbert County has paid a steep price for following their advice.