All my life I’ve heard the term “Tax and Spend” used to condemn some Democrat politicians. But based on the decision of the majority of “Republican” county commissioners and county mayor, who pushed through the county judicial center and property tax increase last week, “tax and spend” aptly describes their brand of politics, as well.

Then, three commissioners - Pack, Green and Merriman - were too quick to endorse using eminent domain to seize private property for their judicial center. Remember that.

On the other side, a mix of seven Republican and Democrat commissioners voted against the center. They actually listened to citizens who overwhelming said they do not want the judicial center at the expense of all our other needs.

My core belief is government exists to serve the people, not people to serve the government. But here we are, saddled with 30 years of debt, and the likelihood of ever-increasing property taxes to serve the want of our mayor and his majority.

We need a new movement in this county which sets aside the tribalism of identity politics in favor of the common good, a bi-lateral coalition that identifies and backs the best candidate because they share our concerns and values, not because of what they claim to be. Some already hold office, others are sorely needed.

If anyone would like to help build that bridge to more responsive government, I am open to suggestions.

Michael Antoniak