Shelby County residents are as varied as its landscape.

To attempt representation for each of the factions of the county is a difficult endeavor; but it is one that the Shelby County Commission must survive in order to embrace success in the future.

Shelby County Commissioners made the right move Monday morning when they decided to continue with their plan to divide the county into districts.

Faced with the redistricting question, it was proposed the county move to an at-large system of voting for its commissioners.

Under this cumulative voting alternative, those who cast ballots would vote nine times total with any combination &045; nine votes for one commissioner, one vote for nine commissioners, four votes for one and five votes for another, etc.

One commissioner claims this is the only way to ensure that a minority was elected to the county commission.

We disagree. Shelby Countians have worked hard to overcome such mentalities, and we believe will rise to the occasion of voting for the most qualified candidates regardless of race, creed or color.

The commission’s decision to remain with the district system was an act of faith as far we’re concerned &045; faith in those they represent to do what is best for this county, no matter what