Members of the Kenbridge Town Council held a meet and greet with town citizens July 2, where residents asked questions of members of the council and the town mayor. The meeting lasted for approximately an hour and may have given us a lot to think about leading up to the regular town council meeting July 17.

Six members of the council were re-elected during the town election May 1. One member, Wanda Morrison, was elected to the seat held by Mike McGrath. Town Mayor Emory Hodges was re-elected.

Everyone knows aspects of their community that they love, and aspects they don’t. Each one of us has the influence to keep what we love in our communities and correct issues that can be detrimental, particularly for our vulnerable populations such as the elderly or children.

Using this influence involves being vocal and getting to know the towns’ leadership.

The Victoria Town Council had its monthly meeting Tuesday. However, residents can still address council members or the town manager and mayor about issues discussed during the meeting, either through visiting the town office or contacting these members directly.

Each town council consists of a small group who cannot possibly know every issue their neighbors experience. Let them know your experience and what you hope they can do for you and your neighbors. Then, hold them accountable as they work to bring whatever issue you address to light.

The next Kenbridge Town Council meeting will be held Tuesday, July 17, at 7 p.m. at the Kenbridge Community Center on Fifth Avenue. The next Victoria Town Council meeting will be held Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Regarding the Kenbridge meet and greet, Morrison said, “There were a lot of open discussions, which is what we need within the county. I just hope the citizens of Kenbridge will continue to participate and come to the town council meetings so their voice can be heard.” We at The Dispatch advocate the same.