Discretionary use of funds unethical
Hamilton County commissioners’ job description:
Did I miss it somewhere? Does it really fall under the job description of the county commissioners to give away $900,000 ($100,000 each) of taxpayers’ money every year, to whomever and whenever they choose?
The subject of discretionary funds/slush funds is a sore spot in a lot of people’s minds and leaves questions unanswered.
Are these funds being used to encourage loyalty to incumbent candidates from constituents and groups that receive such funds?
Are these funds used to buy votes? It has been repeated by several people in the political arena and even by some who are currently serving in office stating that it’s so.
In the newspaper recently, one new candidate running for a commissioner’s job even asked the incumbent if “he was spending his discretionary funds to get elected?”
Some of this money is used in our schools, but why are the commissioners given guardianship over these funds and used for their purpose, rather than the school system needs?
Commissioners – it is time that this unethical practice be abolished.
BOB ROCK
Rhodes possesses best characteristics
In light of the recent controversy surrounding several of the candidates for Congress, I would like to offer an alternative choice for consideration. In my opinion, over the past few weeks, the constituents of the 3rd District have been subjected to a showcase of typical “do anything to get elected” politics. There have been three or four politicians spending their time either pointing fingers or claiming to be taking the high road regarding the mudslinging; there is one statesmanlike candidate who has continued to present his own levelheaded ideas for representing the 3rd District.
Not only has he not taken part in politics as usual, as a candidate he possesses the experience, intelligence and proper intentions necessary to deserve the support of thousands of people who, in turn, deserve a quality statesman representing them in Washington.
He helped construct our nation’s last balanced budget; he is trusted by thousands of ministers to manage their retirement funds; he exemplifies the morals that are greatly needed in our government.
I believe these are the characteristics that have earned Art Rhodes the endorsement of the Times, and the endorsements of thousands of supporters across the district.
DEREK L. MARTIN
Cleveland, Tenn.
Smith speaks on her own
Why are folks so surprised that a trial lawyer, I mean “small-business man,” has been slinging mud in the race for U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp’s seat?
Let’s see. Mr. Chuck Fleischmann hires “consultant” Chip Saltsman, whose claim to fame was sending out “Barack the Magic Negro” and the “Star Spanglish Banner” as Christmas gifts to try to get elected to be the RNC chairman. Stellar judgment! What a great individual to be the face and spokesman of your campaign!
Then, the “small-business man” is endorsed by Mike Huckabee “because of his conservative” credentials. OK. The same Mike Huckabee who just happens to endorse all the candidates Mr. Saltsman works with … That’s right, Mr. “Magic Negro” was Huckaee’s consultant, too.
Chuckabee Saltsman wants to read the talking points and hide behind his two “spokesmen” slinging mud. Classy crowd!
I’m voting for Robin Smith. She’s gutsy enough to stand firm and on her own. That’s what it’s going to take to change Washington!
DON LEPARD