Editorial: Time to speak up during budget season

It’s budget season again.

As schools and governments ramp up their proposals for 2019-20, it is imperative that as citizens we use our voices to speak out on the issues that we want to see addressed.

While the counties and school systems have obligations they must fulfill, there will be funds to support what citizens wish to see. For some citizens, it may be the addition of programs for older adults. For others, it may be the desire to see facilities upgraded. No matter the cause, it is up to us to weigh in on those type of decisions.

The biggest concern I have is that we use social media more to speak out on our concerning issues instead of attending meetings. Even if you are unable to attend these meetings, both government offices and school systems make opportunities available to speak on criteria. Those unable to attend can submit a letter or an email and ask that it be made part of the record. Those emails and letters can be read aloud as well by request of the submitter or respective boards can make a note that they have received it and ask for it to be added to the record.

It doesn’t take a lot of paper to make a difference. It only takes one to step up and speak out. There are the usual fears of public speaking, but words can echo through a person’s ear and weigh on decisions. We are making decisions to benefit our counties and schools not only for today, but for our future.

We are the people living in Charles City and New Kent and there are so many positives that our counties provide. Still, we have to continue to evolve, speak out, and do more. We can’t be selfish, and we can’t be steadfast in what is going on. This is the time for us to employ our school and local leaders to work together and step out on a limb on certain things.

Our leaders have difficult decisions to make and they must balance what their respective organizations want to happen with what the citizens want to see. Resources are limited, but there are ways to make them work.

Saying what you believe is the first step. Following through and letting others know is the next. Being persistent is the final one. There are issues that I’ve fought for in years past as a citizen of Charles City and I plan to continue to fight for them and speak out.

Now is not the time to hold back. Let’s build up each other so that we may live in our respective counties as they prosper in preparation for the next generation.