- February 10, 2026
Dear Editor:
Most people know the quote from the former House Speaker, Tip O’Neill who said, “All politics are local.” I like to expound on that and say “Most all government that effects you is local.”
Your quality of life is greatly affected by your local government. Think about it. The road we drive on, the park we go to, the protections of our fire department, property taxes you pay, and growth are all local.
The feds fund rates, foreign policy and the Bureau of Weights and Measures really aren’t relevant to how we go about our day. Yes the state and federal government does affect us, but nowhere near as much as City Hall.
The point of this is: It's an election year for Ormond’s City Commission, yet I would bet most people know little about those who we have given stewardship over our town. Not even their names.
I ask, no I implore you, to do your own independent research and develop an educated vote for these important positions. They are the stewards of our town. I also ask you not be misguided by the various social media groups who generally are against most everything and do not present an unbiased opinion.
And a note about the always controversial subject of growth. John Adam’s said, “A Government of laws and not of men.” Our elected officials are bound to follow the law regardless if they personally like a project or not. All of us have vested property rights that can not be taken away. So when you see your commissioner’s vote on a development, whether for or against, understand the background of the why. There are always laws and litigation as a component of any governmental decision. Unfortunately, many development projects end up in litigation wherein the elected officials are barred from publicly speaking with the voters. This leads to one-sided social media claims that go unchallenged or even blocked. So don’t mistake an official’s silence as agreement.
In reference to the legendary radio broadcaster Paul Harvey — find out the rest of the story.
Ormond is simply a nicer place to live and deserves your educated vote to protect it. Choose wisely and thank you for listening.
SJ Driscoll
Ormond Beach
Dear Editor:
The Feb. 5 Your Neighbors section of the Ormond Beach Observer, "Community readers," shows a delightful feature photo of Pine Trails kindegartner Krishnav Patel hugging Deputy Mayor Lori Tolland. Just below and to the right of the embrace, the camera is graced by the sweet smile of an onlooking little boy. I believe he added as much pleasure to the scene, and should have been acknowledged. Don’t you agree?
Barbara Morgan
Daytona Beach
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