Dear Editor,
I wrote to the Editor a few weeks ago regarding the need for the public to become more involved in the political process, and the folly our inattention can cause. But I also know what a colossal burden it is, and will be, to keep your elected representatives mindful of the fact that we, the people, are in charge.
Ever heard the saying “when the cats away, the mice will play?” What does that mean exactly? Well, approach it this way; when you were a child, when did you tend to display your worst behavior? Of course-when your parents weren’t around, or weren’t paying attention. It didn’t matter that you shouldn’t. They weren’t watching you, and it was tempting.
Now before anybody gets their feathers ruffled, I’m not accusing every elected official of misbehavior, or every citizen of negligence. We’re simply addressing human nature here. If the temptation is there, some will always take advantage, and some will not.
So, what can we do? I don’t have the answers, but I have a suggestion for a place to start. Become more involved locally. Most any situation that starts small, if left unnoticed, becomes larger. So, give attention to what is going on around you. To begin, start attending the city council and county commission meetings. You’ll be amazed what you learn related to what goes on in your own community, and how decisions are made that affect your life, your home, and your family. If you don’t have the time or opportunity to go to every one, get a group of your neighbors or other members of your area and community to take turns attending, and discuss with each other your observations and what you learn. Email and social media should make it easier. I would also like to challenge our community’s retirees. Please donate a small part of the extra time you’ve been granted, and help your children and grandchildren stand watch.
Lee County Commission meets the second and last Monday of each month, at 5 p.m., in the Lee County Courthouse.
Opelika City Council meets on the first and thirdvTuesday of each month at 7 p.m., in the City Hall’s council chambers at 204 S. 7th St. in Opelika.
Auburn City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, at 7 pm, in the city council chambers at 141 N.  Ross St. in Auburn.
Talitha
Eastridge Norris
Opelika