Eva, why is this article strictly "about" Benjamin when it goes on to state how evident it is he is stealing ideas? As Azar pointed out at the debate, they can talk the talk about being ethical, but proving that they are actually living up to it is a completely different thing. And Benjamin should be an expert by now on how to evade this policy has he's had his hands very deep in city business for many years, with controversial city leaders such as ex city manager Austin and Tony Lawton, who Free Times just did a in depth expose on. Ask him how he got invovled with Village at River's Edge and the Hotel Site on Sunset both with big payouts for him. It wasn't just dumb luck.
RebeccaMarch 24th 11:17am
Rebecca, you couldn't be more poorly informed. First of all, Benjamin has divested himself of all financial relationships involving the city because he puts the people ahead of his own self interests.
Secondly, Benjamin to a loss on both those deals. Why? Because he walked away from them because it would be unethical for the future mayor to be making money off of the city.
onevote78March 24th 05:16pm
while mr. gaines in an advocate for the city, he is also bound by the canons of his profession and if there is a conflict then the canons should prevail. otherwise he is just like the arthur anderson accountants who helped ken lay and his management team bring enron down. if that requires a public disagreement and/or his resignation then so be it. otherwise turn in his law license and professional credentials.
georgeMarch 24th 07:02pm
It seems like for years after years this city has been run by the big time big named people. Its a shame that its so hard for a blue collar worker to run. Why cant we just get some one that wants the best for the city to get in office? Why does it always have to be some one that has friends that want something or him/her to want something for their selves? This does not just go for our little city but for every governmental seat. What happen to them working for the people? Why do we vote so blindly when we go to the polls? We need to let these people know we are not going to be lied to any more. WE NEED TO STAND UP!!!!!
Bill Smith March 30th 08:55pm
The whole civil war was fought over state sovereignty right? We wanted to do what was the best for our fellow South Carolinian's. We let us deiced what is best for us. The state should do the same as Mississippi did a few years ago, put it to a vote. That is what our great country is know for democracy right? We have the right for our voices to be heard, so lets vote.