Collins, Ford for S.C. Senate

Independent Bill Collins faced an uphill battle just getting on the ballot in S.C. Senate District 58. The voters should help him complete his improbable quest to replace the Republican incumbent, who was defeated in the primary.

Mr. Collins retired in 2007 as publisher of the Summerville Journal Scene, which is owned by the Evening Post Publishing Co. He got into the race at the urging of residents, obtained the necessary signatures as a petition candidate and survived Republican challenges to finally get on the ballot.

He will work for a better system to fund public education. He says the State Infrastructure Bank could provide a model, and that uniform school-construction plans could save the state millions.

The state's antiquated annexation laws need to be rewritten to prevent developers from shopping for favorable zoning, he says. He will work for state support of commuter rail, such as that now contemplated between Summerville and Charleston.

He will support government restructuring when it makes fiscal sense. He says the state's tax structure needs to be revised to reduce high income tax rates while ensuring a stable source of revenue for essential services. "We need somebody from District 58 to listen and work with other people," he says.

We don't share Sen. Robert Ford's views on a number of issues, including legalized gambling and unauthorized parking in handicapped spaces. But the long-serving Democrat has proven himself a hard-working and committed legislator. Voters in District 42 should give him another term.

He has crossed party lines in the Senate to advance legislation. His efforts on behalf of the new Cooper River Bridge helped ensure funding support among Democratic colleagues. He also worked to gain community support for the bridge and has fought to ensure that residents' needs are considered as the nearby area is redeveloped.

He understands the importance of economic development and has been a strong supporter of port growth. His constituents never have to wonder where the outspoken senator stands on the issues of the day.