It is to ensure that Stafford County government's actions are tied to the interests of the people that on Feb. 17, we put forward a resolution that would tie the compensation of the Board of Supervisors to the advancement
The resolution would require 30 percent of the compensation of each board member be tied to goals focused on fiscal responsibility, school excellence, and improved public safety.
Achieving each goal would allow board members to collect portions of their pay held in reserve. Failure on each would mean those funds would be available to help advance the areas where goals were not achieved.
The resolution failed, with Supervisors Schwartz, Brito, Woodson, and Crisp voting in opposition.
Mr. Schwartz said the board was "not responsible" for public safety and should not be held accountable.
We respect the right of Mr. Schwartz and the other three to vote their beliefs, but we fundamentally disagree with those beliefs.
We can achieve these goals, and we are responsible. While the School Board bears primary responsibility for education, the Board of Supervisors certainly is a partner.
Supervisors also bear responsibility for community safety. We are responsible for allocating funds, approving positions, and overseeing Sheriff's Office and Fire Department operations.
Furthermore, fiscal responsibility falls on our shoulders. We are responsible for balancing the budget, setting tax policies, and making sure our capital plans remain on time and target.
We hope that the four who voted against this measure will change their position and vote to hold the Board
Cord A. Sterling,
The writers are