Change is Coming

Jefferson County is facing much change over the next calendar year. Not only will there be a new School Board seated, there will also be a new Director of Schools. Not only will there likely be a new complexion on the County Commission, as all are up for re election and some will probably choose to retire from public life, there will also be the election of the County Mayor and the possibility that a new face and staff will be guiding the County. A contested Sheriff’s race raises the possibility that there could be a change on that horizon, as well. The truth is that there are many elections coming in 2018 and other appointed positions that will need to be filled, and all of that brings the expectation that Jefferson County will be looking at some level of change.

Many have watched as the discord has risen in the private sector, as well as among the elected. In the County Commission, it took the face of a new Chairman late in the electoral term of the Commission. In other places, it has taken the form of antagonism, absenteeism, and disregard for the process, with a few trying to push over the will of the masses. We are in a state of flux, a ship without an anchor being tossed about at sea. I know that it is late in the term of the School Board and the County Commission, but it is still too early to bail out. The decisions that will be made in the next few months will impact Jefferson County for years to come. It is not the time to let fatigue override good sense.

For those that are looking for the exit, I say hold on a few more months. The decisions made during the next few weeks and months could be some of the most important of your elected career. For citizens that are tired of the same but fear the coming change, do not let the cold keep you at home. Put on a coat and attend meetings. Be informed. Be vocal. Engage.

Change can be a really good thing if it is made with thought and preparation. It can also be frightening for those that are impacted the most. These are two sides of the same coin. Regardless, change is coming, and there is absolutely nothing that can stop it. 2018 is just around the corner, and what it holds has yet to be seen. But, one thing is for sure, when the ball drops for 2019, everything will be different.