Integrity Over Self-Interest: A Call to Our County Legislators
On December 11th when the Oswego County Legislature meets at 2 pm and again at 7 pm, each legislator will face a profound truth—one that is both simple and personal. And that is: “We are all responsible for our own actions.” Every choice we make ripples outward, touching not only our lives but the lives of those we touch.
With this in mind, the legislature is encouraged to reject their self-proposed 3% salary increases for legislators and 8% raises for the county sheriff, treasurer, and clerk.
Integrity and honesty do not vanish into thin air—they always return to us in kind, often stronger. Integrity inspires trust and trust invites respect. Together, they form the foundation of a community where people can rely on their elected representatives to do the right thing. And this year especially, the right thing is to vote no on these proposed raises.
As the old wisdom reminds us, “We reap what we sow.” This truth becomes more impactful for those entrusted with public service. To be a county legislator is not a privilege. It is a call to look beyond personal comfort, ambition, and financial gain.
Leadership is not about power; it is about stewardship. It means carrying the burdens of those who cannot carry them alone and making decisions with compassion and understanding.
As Bobby Kennedy reminded us, “The measure of our lives will not be found in titles or possessions, but in the impact we leave on others. If we can say that we acted responsibly, upheld honesty, and considered those less fortunate, then we will have lived not only for ourselves but for the greater good of those around us.”
Rejecting the proposed raises is not just a financial decision—it is a moral one. Families across our county are struggling. The hardship of one family affects the strength of our entire community. And the actions of one leader can inspire or erode the trust of an entire community.
When local leaders act with integrity, something remarkable happens: trust grows, respect deepens, and communities thrive. When our county leaders fail, the damage spreads far beyond the walls of the county legislature.
Step up to the role of stewardship. Reject the proposed pay increases. Choose integrity over self-interest.
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