Β County Commission meetings are intended to be moments where the public interacts with our elected leaders. Β Especially when something that affects you is on the agenda. Β That’s when you show up and want to be heard. Β But that’s not the way it always works out, especially with modern technology. Β Covert computing is on the rise.
Teachers looking for better pay showed up at Wednesday’s Commissioner’s meeting. Β Technically, they weren’t supposed to talk about money because of county rules about the budget, but put that aside for a moment. Β
During the comments, commissioners hit Twitter. Β Bill James tweeted, “I can see why #cmsbd has such a bully problem. Mob rule. Gang of teachers attack #MeckBOCC #meckcounty over budget.” Β Followed by, “Memo to CMS from #MeckBOCC #meckcounty-follow the rules! As teachers you should know what they are. It is Raleigh’s decision. mob the #ncga.”
It may be Raleigh’s decision, but the Twitter rant led to frustration that commissioners didn’t appear to be listening to them. Β Bill James wasn’t the only one tweeting, in fact, it’s fairly common in political meetings. Β But there are plenty of jobs where social media is nixed at work. Β From doctors to clerks, there are times you just have to put down the phone and focus. Β So why not our elected officials?
Our Man on the Edge, Robert Wilder, never posts on the job, so why should they?
