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Remember - 2 Posts Per Person Per Day
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I say: don't run. Only you can decide how much more you can put on your
plate, but I would also suggest that, while contested races are a good
thing, you involve yourself first with the District Council by sitting on
one of its committees for awhile, getting to know the system and your own
district's machinations, personalities, agendas and politics before
advancing to the Council board. This way, you'll be able not to only to run
from a position of knowledge and experience - something always to be wished
for in our public servants - but you'll also be able to assess whether or
not this work would take too much or just enough time and whether it's the
kind of community involvement you find valuable for yourself and your
grid/city.
Then, at the next annual meeting, you'll also know whether your grid rep has
performed her duties well and whether or not she should be challenged. Or is
ready to step down, which could make you the heir-apparent to the seat.
Andy Driscoll
Saint Paul
From: Tim Erickson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Last week, as I was planning our recent discussion at the Brewery
Cafe about district councils, I called the Executive Director of my
own district. While on the phone, I was recruited to run for a board
position in my district, that it appeared would be left vacant by its
current occupant.
Yesterday, I stopped by the District Council office to get more
information - only to learn, that the previous rep from my "grid" has
decided that she can continue on in the position.
HOWEVER - the person in the district council office encouraged me to
run anyway, because they would love to see an contested election.
ON THE ONE HAND: I fully understand and appreciate how it looks good
if district councils actually elect board members, instead of just
taking the first volunteer to step forward. I understand that in some
cases, elections make for a much healthier process.
HOWEVER, ON THE OTHER HAND: I have no idea how good of a board member
the current occupant is, I certainly have no complaints about her.
When there are so many vacant board positions around the city, it
seems a shame to try an oust someone who is committed and experienced
in the position. Also, its not like I NEED another major commitment.
Finally, I don't expect that the election will amount to much more
than a flip of the coin anyway, because most folks won't even know
who either of us are... so in effect, what will the election have
accomplished?
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
What advice will my fellow citizens offer me. Shall I run or not?
I would appreciate public responses (if your willing),because I think
that others might have in the past or may in the future face a
similar dilemma and might benefit from a public discussion.
I am leaning towards running for the position, because I think that
in the long run, elections are a healthy part of the process.
What would you do?
best wishes,
Tim Erickson
Hamline Midway
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Andy
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