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Talking to people puts you in touch with what people are thinking and concerned about. It is absolutely essential for local elected officials to get this personal feedback. (That's one reason why it is disturbing that Monona has not had a contested mayoral race since 1993.) Most people are very nice and cordial; some don't want to be bothered and you move along quickly.
I have also observed the transition going on in Monona in a way I had not experienced previously. We have newcomers! There are a whole bunch of young-ish (30's) families with small children. Many of them highly-educated, highly-motivated men and women with an immense amount to offer this community. These are folks who consciously chose to live here over other places in the area (or country). They like it here, but they would also like to see more openness to new ideas. They don't expect things to be done their way, but they do want a say.
I learned today that some families have moved to Monona in order for their children to attend Monona Grove School District after their children missed out on an open enrollment slot. That is a powerful statement about our community and especially about our schools.
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Some odds and ends from the campaign trail.
"Oh, you're the chicken guy." That was not a good thing at that particular residence, but fortunately they added that they were not single-issue voters! (My legacy: I'm the chicken guy....yoinks).
"We want to get rid of all the incumbents. The aldermen over 50 are ruining this city." I pointed out that I am just a little over 50 and that the over-50 group includes - I think - all of the current city council except Chad Speight!
An unnamed dog at an unnamed residence on Dean Avenue burped - in my face - when I bent over to pick up a piece of paper. The owners are supporters; the dog is uncommitted at best.
I talked to one very nice lady who was in her jammies and robe - at one o'clock in the PM. Yeah, another supporter!
When I asked permission to place a yard sign at one home, the homeowner begged off in order to first ask their best friend (a decided non-fan of yours truly) if it was OK. I said, nicely, 'never mind'. Nonplussed was I.
One resident had her, uhh, bloomers hanging out to dry. Flannels. I inquired of the owner if she was aware of our unsightly premises ordinance. (That was a joke between good friends).
"That's one reason why it is disturbing that Monona has not had a contested mayoral race since 1993."
ReplyDeleteMaybe you should run in 2011, especially if no one else steps up. From my vantage point in Cottage Grove, I don't know as much about Monona politics, but from the little I do know about you and Robb Kahl, a race between the two of you could be pretty interesting.
"It is absolutely essential for local elected officials to get this personal feedback. (That's one reason why it is disturbing that Monona has not had a contested mayoral race since 1993.)"
ReplyDeleteDoug, I have to agree with you here, the lack of a race for mayor is too bad for the current mayor and our city. A friendly and lively debate about the future and status of our city would be good for everyone. I think it would be good for our current mayor. I hold no grudge against him like some people who post here, but I think the lack of a contested seat is too bad.
One way people can signal their wish for a contested mayoral election is to write-in someone for mayor who they believe would do a good job. This makes extra work for the poll workers, but writing someone in is a legitimate and legal way to cast your vote. It would send a strong message that regardless of our individual political persuasions, we would like the public discourse a contested mayoral election would provide.
ReplyDelete