As the year 2003 closes out today, we would like to pause for a
few moments and reflect on it.
There was no shortage of controversy in San Benito County as
allegations of corruption rocked the county Board of Supervisors,
including its outgoing chairman Richard Scagliotti.
As the year 2003 closes out today, we would like to pause for a few moments and reflect on it.
There was no shortage of controversy in San Benito County as allegations of corruption rocked the county Board of Supervisors, including its outgoing chairman Richard Scagliotti.
It appears county business as usual wasn’t quite what residents had in mind anymore – and we are still awaiting the result of several investigations, including those from the state Fair Political Practices Commission and the state Attorney General’s office.
The positive news in general with county government is that voters will get to decide on several open Supervisor seats and we urge residents to cast an educated ballot in the March primary and in next November’s general election.
Measure G, despite being the subject of several lawsuits attempting to remove it from the March ballot box, is still there and we are confident the people of this county will vote to put it into law or remove it – and then build on bridges to the future from there.
The City of Hollister certainly had its ups and downs, but we like the current City Council under the refreshing new leadership of Mayor Tony Bruscia and the continued expertise and dedication of a relative newcomer, our outstanding City Manager Dale Shaddox.
It could certainly be argued that money, or a lack of it, was the root of all evil in both of our main local legislative bodies this past year, with the state budget crisis more than trickling down to the way that our county and city should be maintained and operated.
One big gain in the money and perception arena was the start of Destinations magazine and Web site, which is already showcasing our county and so much of what is has to offer for tourists who have been flocking elsewhere.
We would also like to take this time to thank those of you who returned to the Free Lance and recognized us as your daily hometown newspaper.
The Free Lance and its newsroom staff has the courage and commitment to report on and take a real stand on issues that are crucial to our daily lives in Hollister and San Benito County.
We live and work here – and share the same goals, dreams and expectations of each and every one of you.
A safe and joyous New Year’s Eve is on our short list for everyone.
A safe, happy and prosperous 2004 is our wish to all of you.
This is a great place to live and work and raise a family. It deserves an award-winning daily hometown newspaper.
See you next year and thanks again for your continued and growing support!
To respond to this editorial or comment on this issue, please send or bring letters to Editor, Hollister Free Lance, 350 Sixth St., Hollister, Calif. 95023 or fax to 637-4104 or e-mail to
ed****@fr***********.com
