Whoops! I did it again…

 

Well, it’s been four years since I agreed to toss my old straw hat into the ring and make a run for a seat on the City Council. The incumbent was well established and I figured it to be a long shot, but I had good friends and smart people urging me to do it, so I did.

And got elected.

We campaigned hard all summer and fall. I wouldn’t have come close without the untiring effort and expertise of the folks who formed my committee, pounded the pavement, donated the money, and made things happen. Much to some folks’ surprise.

And overall, it’s been a good four years. I like to tell folks who offer sympathy for the supposed rigors of public office that I’m getting a lot less grief as a councilman than I did as a columnist…so this must be a pretty good gig.

And we’ve gotten things done. The city has seen real changes over the past four years, more often than not the result of partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, and volunteers. We’ve had our best success when we work as a community to benefit the whole community and meet with frustration when fear and private interest trumps the public good.

I’ve been pleased to have played a small part in those successes and regret not having been more able to reach a better outcome when things did not work out.

Four years ago my vision for Winona was a good place to live, a good place to work, and a good place to play – for everyone. It still is.

Last month I signed up for a shot at another four-years bringing that vision closer to reality – for everyone.

I invite everyone to join me in making that happen.