To the Editor:

I ran for office because I truly believed I could make a contribution to Isle of Wight County, my most favorite place on earth. You and I are so fortunate to live in a county that offers us so much. And the potential is here for so much more. The key is finding that balance between maintaining what we love about our county while continuing to grow and develop. We can do it! We have an outstanding public school system, thanks to great teachers and, for the most part, excellent educational facilities. Our tax rate continues to be among the lowest in the state. As the economy rebounds, business and industry is resuming interest in our industrial park and other developments. It’s exciting to walk through Smithfield and see so much activity and to hear about all that is coming to the little town of Windsor.

Over the past three months our focus has been diverted by a firestorm of controversy that instead of going away, is rekindled each week by some new comment or issue or media interest. I made my position clear at the outset, and came under heavy criticism as a result. Although I still believe that the county would best be served by Buzz Bailey’s resignation, I also think we must do all we can to put this aside and concentrate on the business of Isle of Wight County.

Regardless of what the judge decides on Friday, let’s make a decision to put aside our differences and work toward the common goal of making our county the best that it can be. I hope that we can eliminate the hurtful speech and the negative comments that have plagued us for months and unite in our efforts to move forward. Let’s put our own agendas aside and concentrate on the positive. I’m ready to read some good news about this great county of ours. Aren’t you?

JoAnn Hall
Chairman
Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors
Smithfield