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September 26.2025
1 Minute Read

Why Four Candidates Pulled Out of Westminster Political Forum Earlier This Week

Empty stage with podiums at political forum, no candidates present.

Candidates Absent, Forum for Westminster City Council Reduced

In an unexpected turn of events at the Westminster political forum held last night, four candidates were notably absent, which curtailed the number of available seats to just four. The candidates who attended included Jimmy Powell, Charles Morgan, and James Jones, while Susan Ramey participated remotely via cell phone.

Mayor Brian Ramey addressed the audience, explaining that Dale Glymph, one of the no-show candidates, had a family obligation. Despite the poor weather, the forum took place in the cozy Depot community room, although the turnout was modest. A long-time Westminster resident who attended expressed his unwavering passion for the city and its continued growth, illustrating the community's interest in local governance.

The format of this forum echoes previous gatherings organized by the Oconee Republican Party, including a recent session for Walhalla city council candidates. Each candidate was given a chance to share introductory remarks before responding to a set of prepared questions, encompassing topics such as the city’s renewed membership in a regional consortium for electric power procurement.

As November 4 approaches, the candidates will need to galvanize public interest and participation. Audience engagement at community forums is crucial, as it not only informs constituents but also allows voters to directly interact with candidates. With the forum's insights broadcasted by 101.7/WGOG NEWS, listeners will have the opportunity to reflect on the candidates' positions as they head into the election.

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09.26.2025

Six Mile Mayor Faces Candy Parade Controversy Amid Community Outcry

Update Mayor Atkinson Tackles Controversy Over Christmas Parade Changes In a recent town council meeting, Mayor James Atkinson addressed significant community uproar regarding a new ordinance banning the throwing of candy during the upcoming Six Mile Christmas parade. This surprising decision, cited as a measure to safeguard children and mitigate insurance risks, follows a tragic incident in Utah in 2022 where a life was lost due to similar festivities. Community Reaction Sparks Action The announcement has sparked fierce backlash among residents and town officials alike. Fire Chief Michael Barrett and Assistant Chief Kendall Rampey openly opposed the ordinance, resulting in Barrett's demotion to captain and Rampey’s termination for breaching county policy. Their dismissals have greatly contributed to local dissatisfaction, with nearly 600 residents signing a petition in support of Barrett and Rampey, reflecting a strong community sentiment. Support for Dedicated Public Servants The families of both Chiefs Barrett and Rampey expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the community, specifically acknowledging the support they received amid their difficult circumstances. Together, the two have served the community for over 42 years and intend to discuss their future with county officials soon. Advocates have even taken creative routes, such as designing T-shirts in support of their cause. Dialogue as a Resolution Path In light of the controversies, Mayor Atkinson urged community members to approach discussions with respect. During the meeting, he made it clear that the town holds no authority over county-employed firefighters, emphasizing the need for a cooperative atmosphere as they navigate these discussions. Tensions remain high, but the mayor believes that open dialogue can lead toward a resolution. The upcoming county and town council meetings will provide platforms for citizens to voice their concerns and influence future decisions. As the community continues to rally together, it showcases the power of unified voices in advocating for local heroes.

09.26.2025

Seneca City Council Cancelled Work Session: What Lies Ahead for Citizens?

Update Seneca City Council Work Session Cancelled: What’s Next for Residents? In a recent update for Seneca residents, the Seneca City Council announced the cancellation of its scheduled work session, initially set for September 30, 2025. This decision comes at a time when community involvement in local governance is crucial, especially given the many issues on the agenda that directly affect the lives of citizens. The Importance of City Council Meetings City council meetings serve as vital platforms for community engagement. They allow citizens to voice their concerns, ask questions, and stay informed about local governance. The next meeting will take place on the evening of October 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM. This rescheduled meeting presents an excellent opportunity for residents to participate in discussions about city planning, public safety, and community enhancements. Future Council Agenda Highlights While specific agenda items for the upcoming meeting have yet to be detailed, residents can likely anticipate discussions on pressing issues such as urban development, economic initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. Previous meetings have often focused on community services that enhance quality of life, such as parks, recreational programs, and public health initiatives. This participation not only fosters transparency but also strengthens the relationship between council members and the constituents they serve. Getting Involved in Local Government Participating in city council meetings isn't just about being heard; it's a chance to influence the future of the community. Residents who are willing to step forward can often find avenues for involvement beyond public meetings. Many councils welcome volunteers for committees that shape local policies. Engaging with your local council can lead to positive change and innovation tailored to meet community needs. As the council prepares for the next meeting, community members are encouraged to share their thoughts and concerns with their council members or attend the widely accessible October meeting. Active civic engagement is crucial for fostering a vibrant and well-informed community.

09.26.2025

Westminster Political Forum: Key Issues and Candidate Insights Unveiled

Update Westminster Council Candidates Gather Despite No-ShowsIn a notable display of community engagement, only four city council candidates made their presence felt at the Westminster political forum held on September 26, 2025. These candidates, Jimmy Powell, Charles Morgan, and James Jones attended the forum in person, while Susan Ramey joined the discussion via cell phone. While it was unfortunate that candidate Dale Glymph was unable to attend due to a family obligation, the absence of Andrea Harbin, who cited work commitments as her reason for missing the event, raised questions about candidate availability leading up to the election.Despite the rainy weather and a small audience in attendance at the Depot community room, one local resident voiced a keen interest in the city’s future developments. The format of the forum mirrored previous events organized by the Oconee Republican Party, allowing candidates to present introductory remarks, respond to a curated set of questions, and offer closing statements.Key Issues on the TableCrucial topics discussed included Westminster’s ongoing participation in an Upstate municipal power consortium—a decision affecting both the community’s energy resources and budgetary strategies. Additionally, moderator JR Slack posed an intriguing question to James Jones regarding the necessity of both a Town Administrator and an Assistant Administrator in a town of approximately 2,400 residents. Jones argued for reevaluating the need for both roles, suggesting that such positions might not be essential for effective governance. This raises important considerations about the efficient use of municipal resources in smaller towns.The candidates also tackled the subject of annexation, providing insights into their viewpoints on this complex issue. As the community looks towards the future, the perspectives shared during this forum will likely shape local discussions going forward.

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