At Thursday evening’s meeting with water customers held at Sheldon Clark High School with the Martin County Concerned Citizens’ watchdog group, one theme was clear: Do we continue to play the role of victim or do we rise above this state to become victors?

The decision is ours.

The gauntlet was thrown down.

Do we confront our challenges or do we remain passive? Do we rise up and seize control of our destiny?

Our plight is clear from listening to those who complained. We live in a county that offers little in return for what we pay in taxes, fees and now, water service. A large number spoke of the futility of trying to live here while paying more. Some spoke of simply selling their homes (if they could get a decent price given the state of things here), moving away and starting afresh elsewhere.

One recurring theme dealt with trust — or rather, the mistrust of county leaders from the water board to the Martin County Fiscal Court — and how to win back that trust.

That question was posed: How can leaders win back trust?

Great question and one not easily answered.

From being hammered with increased water rates to pay for obvious mismanagement in the past, new and increased taxes, and being forced to pay the cost of $55,000 per month for a government center until the year 2038, it’s easy to see why folks don’t trust county leaders.

How about a new county judge and fiscal court? What are they doing to win back trust? The promise of transparency?

Time will tell, but early observations seem to indicate trust won’t come easily.

The only way to change things is to engage with what is happening. Don’t be gullible enough to accept whatever is said without questioning their motives and leadership.

We’re tired of being victims.

It’s time to rise and be victors!