Hunter Bonner
Since December of 2024, the main topic of discussion in Jefferson/Marion County and around the region is about a possible water rights sale to the communities north of Dallas County. Since then, city council and commissioner’s court meetings have been heavily attended all over the water district area, with citizens speaking out against any water rights sale. This translated into action on March 24, with the departure of General Manager Wayne Owen from NETMWD.
As the Marion County Republican Chairman, most of my efforts, and the efforts of our party officials, are partisan in nature. We as “grassroots” political activists are politically engaged and seek to effect policy change in line with our political beliefs.
“Grassroots” refers to those at the voter level who engage in politics. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as, “ordinary people in a society or organization, rather than the leaders.”
However, regarding the water rights sale from Lake O’The Pines, the grassroots activism and the people I have come to know, is anything but “ordinary.” Rather it has been extraordinary to witness and be a part of.
It is an “organic grassroots” activism whose power is swift and has galvanized this community and region. In other words, speaking as one who is politically engaged, it is the best kind of “grassroots activism.”
You, the voter, are the members of this “organic grassroots” action regarding Lake O’The Pines and Caddo Lake.
In discussions that I have had with Marion County residents, and residents from neighboring counties, many stated that this was the first time they have engaged with local government. Texas Open Meetings Act, Robert’s Rules of Order, and Public Comment have quickly become terms that people are now familiar with.
I have written articles in the past stating the importance of local government, and the need for the voters, the “grassroots” of our society, to be engaged with local leaders. The Marion County Commissioners Court, Jefferson City Council, JISD School Board, the Hospital Board, and JEDCO are just a few examples. It is local government that has the most direct impact on our lives.
Certainly the impact on all our lives in this multi-county region by NETMWD would be felt immediately. You all recognized that, and stepped up to be heard. While Monday night’s resignation is certainly worth celebrating, it does not end there. We must all stay engaged!
Regardless of your political party, please note that when the electorate shows up and speaks out, your voices are heard with local government leaders. Your voices matter! If those in power do not listen, then run for office yourself. Even now, there are locally elected seats that are being contested due to this water rights sale, and other local issues that have come up. There are boards and commissions that need regular folks with a heart to serve to step up.
You cannot sit on the sidelines and hope that someone will speak for you. It is time to respectfully engage with local government, because it is “we the people” that provide the best oversight and ensure transparency.
Hunter Bonner is the Marion County Republican Chairman and a lifelong Republican activist. He can be reached at marioncotxgop@gmail.com, and X.com @HunterBonner and found under the hashtag #thatjew.