Written by SaludaGOP

The July meeting of the Saluda County Republican Party…

After a spectacular meal of Homemade Chicken Salad, Pasta Salad, Grape Salad, and Key Lime Pie, the Executive Committee of the Saluda County Republican Party got down to business. Chairwoman, Amy Potts, began by pointing out the presence of Saluda County Sheriff, Josh Price, who was in attendance as proxy for Saluda 2 Committeeman, Jim Morre. She showed his proxy form and explained how quick and easy it is for any committeeman to fill out a proxy form to make sure his or her precinct gets their rightful vote on any issue that comes up at a meeting.

Next, Amy provided some basic procedural information and a brief report about the State Executive Committee meeting she attended in Columbia on June 7. She spoke about the importance of the voices of strong, ethical, conservatives in the grassroots as the only real continuity we have in a government with such frequent re-elections. She reviewed some of the immediate aspirations for the Saluda Party:

Midterm elections: finding every way we can help President Trump maintain majorities in the House and Senate.
Emphasis on Primaries: when it comes to replacing squishy Republicans with strong, courageous conservatives, the primary elections will make the difference.
The need for, and search for, a 5th Vice-Chairman in charge of Elections.

Jay Dunbar, 2nd Vice Chairman for Voter Education gave his report on the particular bills and issues that currently need the attention of Saluda voters. Amy Potts, in the absence of Events Chairman, Sherry Kirkland, gave an update on plans for the upcoming Chad Connelly presentation in August.

Deb Camp, who is Treasurer and head of the Finance Committee, presented a completely aspirational budget developed by the finance committee. She reported that the Saluda Party began the current term with only $350 in our checking account. She explained that a payment portal will shortly be on the website at www.saludagop.org. Motions were made and approved to keep the food donations that we collect at every meeting separate from operating expenses. So far, we have collected enough money to cover the costs of every meal, and as long as that trend continues, we will continue to provide a meal at monthly meetings. Deb emphasized that we will soon be set up to post all our financial reports online. As Republicans we support complete transparency – especially where money is concerned.

The last order of business was the election of a new State Committeewoman. All eligible members had been contacted and allowed to submit their names for the ballot. Long-time past Saluda County Committeewoman, Brenda Bedenbaugh, and current Sardis precinct Committeewoman, Gail Meyer, were the only two seeking the position. Gail Meyer was elected. Mrs. Bedenbaugh was thanked for her many years of service.

The meeting was adjourned at 8pm, with much having been accomplished.