Sound Off is a recurring featuring appearing in Weekend editions of The News Courier. Those wishing to sound off should email comments to NewsCourierSoundOff@gmail.com. Published entries cannot be longer than 100 words. Entries exceeding that amount will be edited for space/content. Please keep in mind the following: Not all items sent to the Sound Off column are published. Items that mention a person or business by name are discarded, unless the person mentioned is a public figure and the item is not a personal attack on that person. Items that have not been published within one month are typically discarded.

A city councilman, in performance of his responsibilities as posted on the Athens city website, does so based on real, applicable, hands-on past and present experience. He must also provide the mandatory time required to adequately support his district’s continuing requirements and responsibilities, plus the mayor and his administration, department heads providing city services, business development and growth. He must also respond to the daily needs of each family and individual requesting assistance. Additionally, a councilman requires years of experience, seasoned by successful conflict resolution to enable the wisdom and insure founded and intelligent decisions. Vote for experience, qualifications and dedication.