Thoughts on Consolidation, Charter Amendments etc.

Just thinking on the recent events concerning calls for “consolidation”.

The newspaper carried the quote that the supporters of consolidation “didn’t want opinions, but he wants questions”. I strongly suggest that Lakeland residents advise the Mayor and County Commissioners of your opinion! It seems the persons pushing for consolidation made up their mind without asking for any questions.

I think Lakeland and the other suburbs and County residents are getting caught in exactly the reasons we don’t want or need consolidated government. “Deals” are made and they ignore the needs of Lakeland, the other suburbs and County residents by people who “know what is good for us”.

I feel Lakeland residents know what is good for Lakeland residents!

I encourage Lakeland residents to attend these scheduled Public Hearings and state your OPINIONS as well as your questions!

-6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 10, 2008: Shelby County Public Schools Public Hearing-Bartlett High School, 56788 Woodland

-10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 12, 2008: Shelby County Public Schools Public Hearing-Barret’s Chapel Elementary School, 10280 Godwin Road

-6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 31, 2008: Shelby County Commission (Charter amendments): Arlington High School

-6:30 p.m., Monday, February 11, 2008: Shelby County Commission (Charter amendments): Bartlett Performing Arts Center

In addition I encourage Lakeland residents to call/e-mail/visit Mayor Wharton and the Shelby County Commission (contacts are listed at www.shelbycountytn.gov and other sites or call City Hall 867-2717) and advise them of your opinion (and yes, questions) on Consolidation and the Charter Amendments!