Dear editor,
In a recent letter to the editor, there were questions regarding my recent vote about the language for Sunday alcohol sales for the November ballot.
As a city council member, my votes represent the desire of my constituents and my conscience. The residents of my ward express their concerns and I listen to them. They may not all have the same voice, but I represent the majority. That majority said to vote no. My conscience agrees.
I strive for the city to be a safe place for families, young and old. Anything I perceive as dangerous for anyone, I cannot support. Government's first obligation is to protect the public's health, safety and welfare.
Alcohol has killed people I love and caused the breakup of countless families. I realize many within the city believe alcohol is the answer to economic problems; I do not believe this is true. I believe industry is the answer for a healthy economic system, not Sunday alcohol sales. I believe having jobs in our city, bringing home a substantial paycheck to support a family is the answer, not the availability for a cocktail on Sunday afternoon.
If Milton's family atmosphere is in question, my vote will always favor families.
In the letter, Milton was referred to as “Mayberry” (from) “The Andy Griffith Show.” Mayberry was depicted specifically to appear as a happy place to raise a family. There was plenty of fishing, many retail stores along Main Street for shopping and plenty of people to converse with while walking to City Hall. The biggest problem the sheriff had, in my opinion, was children riding their bikes on the sidewalks or when the Darlings came to town.
The city of Milton strives to be a safe place for all residents to live. I will continue to vote for safety above all.
PATSY LUNSFORD
Milton
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: LETTER: Mayberry would be a great place for Milton to be