You Can't Handle the Truth

Think about the movie, titled A Few Good Men and focus on the line by Jack Nicholson saying, "You can't handle the truth." This is what came to mind when I read the excellent editorial column by Jeff Webb in this morning's edition of the Hernando Times, titled "Status quo is not leadership". His editorial focused on the Hernando County commissioner's failure to take the reins, in any meaningful way, to plan for the long term needs of Hernando County. His paraphrases, in references to the commissioners, are a mirror image of what most us are thinking out here in the community. Mr. Webb stated that the actions, or inactions, of these commissioners is basically the same as their predecessors, with these commissioners not having the ability, or foresight, to solve problems and make critical choices. Lip service, hand wringing, and finder-pointing were words used by Jeff Webb while describing the commissioners which sums up the general political climate in our community. Our elected officials are there to represent our long term interests, and not their popularity concerns when facing their own re-election campaigns, or when facing their political party leaders. It takes real leadership to make difficult decisions, not only in government, but also in the private sector. Sound financial planning requires adherence to long term goals. What was not said in Mr. Webb's column was it is not just the commissioners fault for the lack leadership, vision and courage. This message should be a wake up call to the electorate that put these individuals in office. What did the citizens hope to gain by the commissioners they elected for their district? Was their vote one of confidence in the individual's ability to be a leader? Or was it a protest vote to oust the opponent? Or was it merely a popularity vote, not based on any credentials as a leader, just that of popularity concerns? It is everyone's responsibility to demand leadership, courage and vision out of our county commissioners, even if the choices are tough. It all revolves by the opening example I referenced by Jack Nicholson who said, "You can't handle the truth." Maybe its time we demand real leadership decisions in this county, even if it isn't the popular thing to do...