There are some people that may wonder why I would change my mind on a topic as hot as zoning, especially during an election.
There are a few that may say that I “sold out” or that someone pushed me to my conclusion. These were opinions that were even listed by the editor of the Dispatch in his Wednesday’s editorial. Even though I have written about my decision to change my stand on zoning in both the Dispatch and HiH, I felt it necessary to do a little explaining. Not so I could justify my decision but so that there is no misunderstanding and for rumor control.
First, let me say that in no way did any one person influence me to do something or say something that I didn’t feel was right. I have had no pressure placed on me from either side. My decision was based on several factors. The top being that I believe to spite the possibility of mismanagement, zoning can make Vance County better. I don’t think that it is a tool to keep poor people from living near the wealthy. I don’t think that zoning is intended to set racial boundaries either. My first impression of zoning was that it isn’t right for us now. I was concerned with those who would want to profit by zoning at others’ expense. I was concerned with corruption. The truth be told, I was just not as informed as I should have been. Like many others, I was quick to jump to conclusions. In reality, anything is open to corruption and mismanagement. We just need to make sure that the ones that control zoning really have our best interest in mind. Vance County has to get better at just about everything. If zoning has helped in other places, maybe it will help here and we do need the help. Zoning is change and there are those who dislike change all together.
Second, I would like to explain why I decided to change my position during my campaign. It was said on HiH that it was stupid of me to do this. I disagree. I have said from the beginning that I didn’t know everything, I will always admit when I am wrong, I will listen to others, I will keep an open mind, and I will try to make the best decisions that I can. For me to finally realize that zoning isn’t the monster that I had first thought and not change my position publicly would have meant that I was being dishonest to the voters and myself. I could not keep “no zoning” on my platform when I feel that zoning is not all that bad. In doing this, I believe that I have proven that I do listen and will be honest. I believe that I have shown one part of what I said that I would do. It is not a tactic to win an election. It isn’t a stunt to gain or lose votes. I simply did what I do. I call it like I see it. The one thing that I can say is I may not always be right but I want to do what is best for me, you, and Vance Co.
It was also said that since Mr. Hester is in favor of zoning, people should vote for him and not me. In relpy to this I say, if you are happy with the way things are in Vance Co., don’t change those in office. If you aren’t, make a change. There are many other issues than zoning. Please don’t be so narrow minded that you let one issue influence your decision. What I can bring to the table is this; I am a former employee of Vance County. I have served as a Deputy Sheriff, a firefighter, and a paramedic. I have been a public servant all of my working life. I know what it is like to work for Vance County. I know what it is like to pay taxes in Vance Co. I have seen it from a view that no other commissioner has. I feel that I am an average citizen who wants to make a positive difference. I have nothing personal to gain. I am willing to put forth many hours to help this county. I have already put in a lot of hours with this campaign. What do I ask in return? I ask for your support.
There are always going to be those who will give negative feedback no matter what. To those people I say, thanks for the clutter. If life has gotten so bad that you have to do nothing but be negative, go fishing. That always seems to help me. I have always asked that if anyone has any suggestions or questions, please contact me. If you have a concern, let me know. Let’s talk about it. Who knows, we may learn something from each other. I can be contacted by email at ashughes2006@yahoo.com or you can call me anytime at 226-2010. My mailing address is 1272 David Ave. So feel free to let me know how you feel. Please remember, complaining only gives you something to do for a short while. If you see something that needs to be changed, try to change it. Or at least help those who are trying.
Thank you for your support and may God bless you and yours.
Yours Truly,
Scott Hughes