I have very much enjoyed my two terms as Ward Two’s city councilor, especially when helping residents navigate our city procedures to help resolve their individual issues. I have also appreciated the comradery and compromise among most of the other city councilors. As an outgoing member of the city council, the best advice I can give is, when running for public office, voters should get to know not only what, but how you think too. The primary goal of any councilor should be the responsible spending of tax dollars. These dollars fund public safety, plowing, parks, road maintenance, and waste removal as well as wise investments for the future. Equally important is preparedness, which is critical in making informed decisions. One also needs to be present and at the table for all the meetings and have a working knowledge of rules, ethics, and procedures.
If you don’t like a certain process, that process can always be changed with proper discussion and a council vote. Working well with others to achieve city goals cannot be overstated. Since a councilor needs a second to a motion and at least eight votes for that motion to pass, it’s important to listen attentively and maintain respect for others’ thoughts and opinions. Please remember, the city council not only plans to resolve community issues in need of immediate attention, but to also plan for the next ten to thirty years. For the well-being of all our citizens, I hope the voters of our city make the right decisions on November 7th .
Erle Pierce
Concord