What was supposed to be a meeting to allow the Beaufort County Board of Commissioners and three area legislators to discuss issues important to Beaufort County at times turned into a debate over political philosophies between commissioners.

During the meeting Friday, state Reps. Paul Tine and Michael Speciale and state Sen. Bill Cook endured those philosophical exchanges. They were there to find out what the commissioners want them and the N.C. General Assembly to do for Beaufort County. After all, that was one of the purposes of the meeting. But the board, at times, had other ideas.

The commissioners talked about gun control. The Republicans on the board echoed the GOP’s line on the issue. The Democrats on the board echoed their party’s mantra on the issue. On the issue of school vouchers, the Democrats on the board made it known they oppose school vouchers. The Republicans on the board made it known they support school vouchers.

Come on, commissioners, we pretty much know your positions on many issues because of the political party to which you belong.

During the meeting, Tine reminded the commissioners he was there to find out what they want him and the other area legislators to do for Beaufort County. In effect, Tine told the commissioners to provide him, Speciale and Cook with input so they would know what to work for when the Legislature convenes in May for its short session. Tine did not want to listen to a debate that rehashed political points of view. Tine wanted dialogue that would lead to productive efforts on behalf of the county and its residents.

There is a time for debate, but that time is better suited for the election season, not during a meeting where the commissioners and legislators are gathered to discuss issues likely to affect the county and its residents.

Hopefully, the three legislators gleaned enough from Friday’s meeting to help them, working through the Legislature, find ways to help Beaufort County grow and prosper.