Many people had never heard of the group Canton Quality of Life before a few weeks ago. But the once-quiet grassroots organization has recently captured the attention of local lawmakers and the public with their hard-hitting probes on city government.
Remember the recent controversy over a citizen being denied the use of his video camera in an open city meeting? James Cockrell, vice chairman of Canton Quality of Life, was behind the lens. And when the news broke that ex-Canton animal control officer Alonzo Esco had allegedly improperly shot and dumped numerous animals, Canton Quality chairman Susan Coulange made it her mission to hold the city accountable for hiring a qualified officer in Esco's place.
Said Coulange: "We want Canton to belong to the people like it should. We want our leaders representing us."
Canton Mayor William Truly, who clashed with the Cockrell when he ordered him not to videotape the Feb. 10 mayor and aldermen work session but in later meetings ceased resistance, went on the defensive when asked about Canton Quality of Life, saying city government has nothing to hide and that the group has done nothing to better Canton.
With the help of media attention and a revamped Web site, www.cantonquality.org, Canton Quality's membership has doubled to 35 in just two weeks, Cockrell said. Greg Green was recently brought on as secretary, while Gregg Guion serves as treasurer.
Coulange said "anyone who loves Canton" can join the organization that hopes to draw membership from all parts of the city. In time, the bylaws will be finalized, and the group will have general meetings.
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