Local Leadership = Cats, Dogs, Streets, Sewers & Jobs

June 1st, 2015

Giga City Leadership

Long before I ever thought of running for public office I had a strong understanding of the difference between local government and governance from afar. To explain my reasoning, I used these words then and I highlight them now: “Cats, dogs, streets, sewers and jobs don’t care about politics.” As Mayor of Jasper, dealing with cats, dogs, streets, sewers and jobs is my job!

Local elected officials are, first and foremost, local citizens. We live where you live. We drive on the streets you drive on. We work where you work. There isn’t a day that goes by that someone doesn’t engage me with a question or comment when I’m in public – that means at the grocery store, at the ballgame, even at church – and I wouldn’t have it any other way…because as your leader, I care.

When you find yourself agreeing with media outlets complaining about our country or you’re disappointed with something from Washington, D.C., consider the fact that Jasper City Hall is right down the street in the center of our community and my office is open to you. Come see me, invite me for a cup of coffee or a walk on the Riverwalk. You just can’t do that anywhere else.

Anyone can run for office.  Most can serve.  Only a few will become leaders.  Leadership starts right here at home.