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Recalling the words of our last, acknowledged Great Leader, President Ronald Reagan, “There you go again…”, Brian Tam has once again demonstrated his political allegiance to the City of Cumming, the self-serving interest of his agenda as opposed to the facts, and his ability to manipulate circumstances and perceptions of the ill-informed to fit his best interests.

What Brian Tam did on June 19th to Mike Busse, a political contender for Brian’s seat, is so very reminiscent of what three commissioners (Chairman Conway, Commissioners Tam and Ledbetter) did to me in January of 2005 when newly seated Board of Commissioner (BOC) David Richard had moved for my appointment to the Planning and Zoning Board for District 4.   I was a qualified, fair-minded, logical thinker, willing to serve the citizens of Forsyth County, who was voted down in a very controversial 3-2 vote.

When Mr. Tam and I had a meeting a few days later, he stated to me, “It could look like a political payback” to me for the appointment.   Payback for what? Placing a few yard signs out on the highway?  Totally Absurd!!

If that is the standard, then perhaps Mr. Laughinghouse and Mr. Harrell should name several highways and/or roads in the county after those many citizens who helped in their re-election/election to the BOC.  I.E. Lanier Golf Country Lane (Buford Dam Road) for starters.

In keeping with Mr. Tam’s standard, Mr. Richard should replace Ms. Mills on the Park and Recreation Board with a political appointee.  However, Mr. Richard has respect for Ms. Mills and appreciates the work she does on the Board, even though they differ in their political approach to issues.  Mr. Richard simply wants the best people who work for the good of the county and not self-serving interests.

As I see it, the political payback was Mr. Tams to Mr. Conway for the Vice Chairman’s seat over a much more qualified, Mr. Laughinghouse.  Mr. Laughinghouse was not a political ally of the then Chairman, Mr. Conway, but represented the interests of the county over the city.  It was Mr. Tam’s payback to Mr. Conway against both Mr. Richard and myself in our efforts to get better, more responsive and fairer representation for the 4th District on the BOC.

While, in my case, Commissioner Ledbetter later apologized to me for her vote and expressed regret over it, I confess to being surprised to learn of her recent vote(s) regarding Michael Busse’s reappointment.  First voting in favor of it in a work session and then against it in public.  What gives Commissioner Ledbetter?  Michael Busse has only one vote, just like you!  Are you saying your one vote can have such a dramatic impact on the Citizens of Forsyth County as you and Mr. Tam imputed to Mr. Busse?

First, in my opinion Mr. Tam should have done the honorable thing and recused himself in a vote where his political opponent was concerned.  If he had done as much, even if not required by law, he would have demonstrated his concern for the citizens of Forsyth and doing what is just, fair and reasonable.  He would have likely picked up a few votes in the process.

Alas, Mr. Tam chose to take a course of action which is NOT in keeping with Republican Principles, but more Clintonesque: discredit your opponent every chance you get, even if it is out of bounds to reasonable people. Sad Mr. Tam, simply very sad.

Second, simply follow the money trail.  Who has the most, and the largest signs on display around the county?  And then ask yourself, who that person is indebted to for favors?  The citizens or special interests?

Finally, those who are supporting Mr. Tam for re-election would be wise to watch their backs, before you feel the cold, sharp sting of betrayal as Mr. Tam works for his best interest with the rest of the population--a useful, but non-essential, disposable facet of his agenda.

In the spirit of Full-disclosure, I have placed three yard signs out for Mr. Busse, and two David Richard car magnets, thus far, during this election cycle.