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should comprise
advisory boards
It’s unfortunate that a dedicated advisory board member like Al Daniel, who lives just across the county line in Bladen County, cannot continue to serve in that capacity, but a rule requiring that advisory board members live in the county is the right decision. Accountability is the issue, and subsequent appointments cannot be based on the outstanding performance of a single person.
We see no reason, however; that a board or county commissioner could not appoint an out-of-county member in an ad hoc, or non-voting, capacity. For example, the bicentennial celebration will be a big undertaking, and former county residents who are familiar with county history would add greatly to the effort.
There is another issue here,: apparently there aren’t enough Columbus County residents willing to serve on advisory boards. While these boards are hardly glamorous – a meal every once in a while is about all the thanks members receive – these jobs are important. Members bring different perspectives and ideas to the table that are often of great value. More citizens are needed.
Returnables would
help rid roadsides
of unsightly litter
A bill in the N.C. Senate (SB 215) that would charge a returnable bottle or can fee for every drink sold in North Carolina is one that works to keep roadsides cleaner in many states.
Our roadsides are a mess and an embarrassment. Returnables would remove at least half of the litter that is strewn beside our highways.
A similar program was once in place in the state. It had two effects.
First, people didn’t throw their bottles and cans out because it cost them every time they did.
Second, if motorists did throw bottles and cans by the roadside, people looking for a few extra bucks would pick up the containers and turn them in to redemption centers.
Disgusting roadsides are not only an aesthetic issue, they negatively affect economic development because of the poor impression they make on visitors.