One former county council candidate is speaking out about what he calls “obscurantism.”

Jeff Sarokas, a Gilbert resident, is discouraged with his county representation.

Sarokas was a council candidate in the most recent Lexington County Council election.

Since his defeat by Larry Brigham, he says he has tried to remain involved. He has made efforts to reach out to Brigham about issues facing Lexington County.

Sarokas says he has been frustrated by the results.

Brigham said he has “attended many functions in District 2 and across Lexington County” and has listened to new ideas from many residents.

“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve the people of Lexington County Council District 2 and Lexington County as a whole,” he added.

Sarokas says Brigham has ignored emails and Face-book posts. Some of his inquiries have been deleted.

“He is just not responding,” Sarokas added.

Brigham did not address the matter in a response to the complaints.

On Oct. 19, Brigham posted on Facebook his support of Eddie Cogdill, one Lexington District 3 School Board candidate.

Sarokas commented with several questions about District 1.

He asked which board candidates Brigham supports and his thoughts on the upcoming $365 million bond referendum.

He inquired about the financial impact it would have on constituents and businesses, especially if it fails.

The post was deleted, Sarokas said. He never received a response.

Before he posted, he said he had a “shaking suspicion” that would happen.

Sarokas said it’s important to talk about because if the referendum fails, small businesses like the one he works for will be “kicked in the butt.”

Businesses, with what he calls already-high property taxes, will end up paying for it.

The referendum issue is one of many he has remained involved with.

The Lexington quarry is another.

He disagrees with Brigham on mining policy. Sarokas calls Brigham anti-quarry, whereas Sarokas said he thinks the county should try to work with the quarry.

Some businesses could thrive under its influence, he said.

He has reached out to Brigham on that matter, too, without reply, he said.

The Batesburg-Leesville industrial park is another concern for Sarokas. He said since there’s only one business there after nine years, it’s time for a change.

Housing or retail are potential alternatives, he said.

It must be expensive to maintain, and it’s practically empty, he added.

Sarokas asked Brigham how much it has cost the county so far and what the budget for upkeep is, without response.

Sarokas says he’s tired of the “sitting on our hands” approach to government.

He wants to see more communication between his elected county representative and constituents.

Brigham says he welcomes constituents to call, email or text him.

His contact information is available on the Lexington County website.

“I am looking forward to serving another term and representing the interests of the people and the visions for the future of Lexington County,” Brigham said.

“My focus with my next term is to ensure that Lexington County progresses in a prudent, responsible way.”