By Claire Sachse
Claire.sachse@tryondailybulletin.com

 

In Saluda there is a race of three commissioners for two open seats in next week’s election. Incumbent commissioner Leon Morgan is running, along with newcomer Stanley Walker. Karen Bultman also filed but has since dropped out of the race, according to the Polk County Board of Elections Office.

One candidate for Saluda City Council, Leon Morgan, has submitted responses to the Bulletin’s questions concerning why they are running for office, what they hope to accomplish in office, their thoughts on their town, ideas for water solutions, and more.

The general election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3 at Columbus, Tryon and Saluda polling places from 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Why are you running for Saluda Council and what is your top priority for the city?

Leon Morgan: I care about Saluda and the citizens of the community. I feel I have made a difference in the last twelve years. I have tried to serve the citizens of Saluda and protect the community that I love and live in. I have two businesses in town which are part of Saluda’s heritage . I have lived in Saluda all my life and have raised three daughters, and now have two granddaughters and a grandson, all of whom live in Saluda.  Saluda has been my life and I am part of that community. I want to protect and preserve the Saluda I grew up in with controlled growth; so my family will have the same small town values that have been instilled in me.

Saluda’s water and sewer infrastructure seems to be crumbling. How do you propose to repair the system and how do you propose to fund those repairs?
Leon Morgan: The City of Saluda’s water and sewer was installed in the twenties. The City has tried to make needed repairs over the years but, as everyone knows, funds are limited. In the last 12 years we have made some progress, including building a new sewer plant with most of money coming from FEMA after a hurricane. The City has continued to work on the sewer and water system with the funds that are available. Jonathan Hollifield is working now on a study to see what issues need to be fixed first, and how to do it in the most cost effective way. We are also looking into applying for grants to fund much needed repairs. There has also been some talk of applying for a loan for the enterprise fund.
Now that the water contract negotiations between Polk County and Inman-Campobello Water District have ended, do you think the county and towns should revisit discussions about a county-wide water authority and if so, how do you propose to make it work this time? If not, explain why.
Leon Morgan: I am very familiar with and  have been involved in the interconnect waterline from the beginning. In the future it looks like it will be a great asset for Saluda when all the kinks are worked out of the system. Saluda should always be looking for an alternative source of water supply. In the past, we have had studies on the town drilling wells for the town to have a backup water supply. Saluda should be open to looking at new solutions to our water issues. If we decide to have a joint water authority, I would only be in favor of this if it is in the best interest our town.
Do you feel Saluda’s ordinances are up to date? Are there any areas of change you feel Saluda should address with its regulations?
Leon Morgan: The Saluda Zoning Ordinance is a living document and should be kept up to date. At our last commissioners meeting we looked at changing our numbering system of ordinances so it will be easier to update. I was on the zoning board for several years and it is a hard job to balance growth with protecting the quality of our town. We currently have a good zoning board and they have worked hard to update the current zoning ordinance. We as commissioners need to support and commend them for all for their time and hard work.