Lake Wylie Pilot editorial: Who will take baton from Henderson?
Our York County Council representative Bruce Henderson last week told Lake Wylie Pilot he will not seek re-election in November for his District 2 seat. The third-term councilman cited personal reasons –a growing family with a baby girl on the way and work obligations that will lead to more travel – why he wouldn’t run again. We wish Henderson best wishes in the new year working for us and the county, and in his future endeavors.
The Clover native has been a strong advocate speaking on behalf of his constituents, which includes Lake Wylie and Clover. His seat is crucial for Lake Wylie. It’s the only local government position that represents our unincorporated area of the county without municipal leadership. So who will take the baton next?
During Henderson’s term, he stood solid on many issues, including the service contract fight between River Hills/Lake Wylie EMS Squad and Piedmont Medical Center. Thankfully, the EMS team continues to operate its free service funded by donations and charging insurance companies.
The Crowders Creek park plan is within reach now – five years into his term. The push ensued even before his time, nearly 10 years through two former councilman Perry Johnston and Tom Smith, who also continue work with residents who want to see this community asset come to fruition.
He also was an advocate for squashing Martin Marietta Materials granite quarry plans for 200 acres near U.S. 321 and Ridge Road in Bowling Green.
He was there with residents on Bonum Road during their issues with a developer, which spurred the county considering a request for Lake Wylie overlay turned into the zoning changes to curtail high-density development on the lake. The zoning plan looks to protect water resources – streams and the lake – but unfortunately, as Henderson said, doesn’t address the initial issue.
While we see council members’ work through meetings and on large issues, sometimes they act behind the scenes as peacemaker, mediator and friend. Henderson said he enjoys helping people resolve problems whether the issue is of a potbellied pig with makeup should be considered a domestic pet or livestock, settling a complaint on the front porch of neighbors to working out whether an animal or four-wheeler is allowed to cross someone else’s property.
District 2 is diverse with Lake Wylie and Clover residents and influx of people moving to the area. It’s important to look at the big picture and stay resilient on issues, such as management of growth.
This council seat is crucial for us. It’s also voluntary. As Henderson said, a council member could expect to spend about 20 to 30 hours a week on council matters. Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at Council Chambers in York.
According to yorkcountygov.com, the seven member council’s responsibilities include adopting the county budget, setting the county property tax rate, and determining the goals and objectives to provide efficient services to residents. The mission: “York County is recognized for its high quality of life, highly skilled workforce and sustainable economy that provides balanced growth and complements a healthy environment. The citizens are informed and active partners, working together with dedicated and responsive government, to anticipate challenges and achieve innovative solutions.”
While looking out for the entire county, representatives also walk the line of advocating for their constituents. Lake Wylie is feeling development and zoning growing pains, infrastructure issues with growing traffic backups and pothole riddled roadways. Henderson has and continues to be an unfailing advocate for us.
Who will step up next to meet the challenges?
This story was originally published January 11, 2016 at 10:53 AM with the headline "Lake Wylie Pilot editorial: Who will take baton from Henderson?."