Letter: Applicants needed for bond committee

TO THE EDITOR:

With bills such as House Bill 2, passed in an emergency session by the General Assembly on March 23, the North Carolina state government is embarking on its agenda to prevent local governments from making their own laws.

Orange County is taking the lead in opposing these regressive actions in many ways.

This is the spirit in which Orange County always invites its citizens to serve on its advisory boards and commissions.

This is an opportunity for those of us who actually live here to make a lasting, valuable impact on the place we call home.

The Board of Orange County Commissioners recently approved a preliminary bond referendum of $120 million for repairs and renovations in both school districts — roughly 37 percent of the identified needs — and $5 million for affordable housing.

This is merely the first step, however.

Now we need volunteers who will help shape the future use of these allocated funds by helping to educate the public as to what’s at stake.

What are our school’s most pressing needs?

How can we use ‘new media’ to get the word out to others?

Everyone has ideas, opinions, suggestions, and this is what we need to hear.

This committee will be involved primarily in communications and giving our residents the education and information they need on an issue that will impact our schools and community.

It’s rare that we see college students volunteer for these committees because of their own studies, but this is an ideal opportunity for a UNC student to get on a local working group and take what they learn to their own constituents.

We hope a student will apply.

To that end the Board of Commissioners recently created a Bond Education Committee. On it are vacancies for four at large Orange County residents — citizen legislators.

There will be additional members from housing non-profit organizations, schools and the county for a total of 14 members on the committee.

For a look at what the Committee specifically requires of its members — or simply to apply — go here: www.orangecountync.gov/boards.

Please apply no later than April 15.

Orange County strives for diversity on volunteer advisory boards.

Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must reside in Orange County.

A chorus of our citizen’s voices has the power to influence the shape of the world we live in, now and well into the future.

Please consider taking part in this important effort. The insight and skills you will bring to this committee as a citizen of Orange County is all the insight and skills you’ll need.

For questions regarding the Bond Education Committee or for additional information, call Thom Freeman 919-245-2125 or email tfreeman@orangecountync.gov.

Earl McKee

Chairperson

Orange County

Board of Commissioners