Silent thousands ache for change

This is regarding the Nov. 28 editorial "Is anyone out there?" The answer is yes, by the thousands we are out here, as our numbers against passing of SPLOST so indicate. But it would be an incorrect interpretation to assume the failure of SPLOST was totally because of the overstuffed Christmas duck of a sales-tax issue. This was only part of the reason SPLOST bombed.

I don't plan - yet - to sell out and move to Columbia or any other county, but can truthfully understand why thousands are doing so. The problem in Augusta and Richmond County began with the consolidated government and the manner in which voting districts were established. The former Richmond County government found no difficulty in growing and solving important issues prior to consolidation. Why? Because county government was not formed as such to guarantee minority-representation districts.

It has been these minority districts and their dedication to address only minority issues that have caused our decline. It appears the ones with the biggest mouths and the right to cry "racist" on our local commission rule the roost.

Voting against SPLOST was also an appeal for help to save a sinking ship. With Charles Walker back in the state Senate, our hopes may forever be in vain. If I remember correctly, he played a major role previously in the redistricting procedures after consolidation. Though I did vote against SPLOST because of the need and expense, I was also hoping to alarm the state government to get back here and make an effort to help solve our local governing problems.

In conclusion, Columbia County better be ever-vigilant, or it may become the next victim of an efficient, consolidated government, with guaranteed minority representation and total inner-city control.

Douglas Neal Sr., Augusta