For over 45 years I have both watched and participated in local elections. Over the past decade, there has been a disturbing trend that has evolved. With the advent of political influencers, races become mired in how much we can vilify our opponents as compared to sticking to why the voters should support us.
What I want in an elected official is someone who realizes that the position is not about them, but rather, how well they interpret the desires of their constituents. I want someone, who may have personal thoughts about a particular issue, but is willing to change their mind when they see that the community is not on the same page. To me, that is leadership!
In Park City Council elections, someone who has no background in civic involvement can, and does, get elected. Both Jeremy Rubell and Bill Ciraco have done that. I respect them for it.
When it comes to electing a mayor, I feel differently. “Street cred” matters! I want someone who has a proven track record of involvement. The past five mayors all had years of service, in varied forms of activism, prior to running for office. This ranged from service in not-for-profits, Planning Commission, City Council, and showing up at council meetings.
They showed us through their actions that they deserved our vote. That is why, in this election I am supporting Ryan Dickey for mayor.
While attending the meetings on the downtown action plan, I disagreed with Ryan on some of the redevelopment plans. After the public input, I saw him change his position on some of the plans. I see that as a good thing!
Elected officials usually have more access to information and many times may know more than the public on a particular issue, their job is to make sure that we are as informed as they are and never act like they know better.
We are a tight-knit town where on so many issues we are in agreement with the direction we are heading. There ain’t no time to hate!
Dana Williams
Park City
Editor’s note: Before joining the Park City Council, Bill Ciraco served on Park City High’s School Community Council, which funded the Dream Big program, with Save People Save Wildlife, and as president of his homeowners association, as well as prior Planning Commission and other civic experience in West Hampton Beach, New York.