Dear Editor: After reading articles and hearing comments at the BOC meetings regarding how the fees to obtain a passport are being used, I feel we need more factual information before we become "appalled" and pass judgment about how Ms. Wilson does her job. I am appalled that there are those who would rather judge people instead of researching issues for the facts. I am appalled that there are those that will use phrases like, "unethical behavior, lack of ethical leadership, behind the scene larceny, no transparency," without given thought as to whether truth is involved.

We should have clarification of issues before speaking out negatively. It is public knowledge that the procedure regarding how the passport fees are used is the same method that has been used since 1992. It was legal then, and it is legal now. If the public feels that it is unethical, why wasn't there public outcry during those first 17 years it was in effect? Ms. Wilson did not implement that procedure; it was already in place when she took office. There are those that asked the BOC to look into whether any of these collected funds from passport fees could be donated to non-profit organizations. I wasn't aware that the county had authority to make that decision since processing passports is separate from county responsibilities. We need to know all the facts before condemning Ms. Wilson. We need to recognize that this administration is doing a good job. Working together in unity is what makes Conyers a great place to live. Negative division is nothing less than a hindrance.

Allene Eatman
Rockdale County