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Commission ethics
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We think it's worthwhile that the Newton County Board of Commissioners is reviewing their ethics policies.

The reason this is even necessary is the abuse of gifts of every sort by politicians across the country.

However, we have no reason to believe that any member of the BOC has abused the system.

We agree with Commissioner Simmons that $50 could be arbitrary, we disagree with his reasoning.

Commisioner Earnest Simmons was concerned that taking him and his wife out to dinner would cost more than $50.We are sure it would unless they enjoyed fast food.

If someone is taking him to dinner because he is a member of the BOC, he should pay for his accompanying family member himself.

Commissioner Tim Fleming's idea that all such gifts should be reported makes perfect sense, and we would like to see that stipulation put into any future rules governing the ethics of the commission.


Our Thoughts: Remembering Nancy VanKleeck
Nancy VanKleeck
Mrs. Nancy VanKleeck - photo by Special Photo

The Covington News would like to take a moment to remember Mrs. Nancy VanKleeck. We became acquainted with her a few years back while she was asking for information about the jail log. She had a ministry in which she would write letters to inmates telling them about Jesus. She was able to write over 11,000 letters. She was a true woman of character. We will miss her.