An experienced leader is vital at this time in our city
By Managing Editor Patricia St. Louis

Some final thoughts about the upcoming election that is now less than one week away...
There’s a reason why people from all walks of life (myself included) are supporting Fountain’s Mayor Jeri Howells in her re-election race. It’s about what is best for our city.  In this case we have an individual I consider to still be a “novice” on our city council challenging Mayor Howells- who has been an active community member for 40+ years, not to mention her 16 years of serving as the County Commissioner for our area. If you have followed Jeri’s ad in this paper, the endorsement list has grown each week- to include people from all aspects of our community and region. They know of her proven leadership and experience, they know that she is genuinely interested in making her hometown a better place.

Just this week I had the opportunity to talk with small business owner and local resident Cheryl Branch, an American Family Insurance representative, regarding how Mayor Howells made a difference and gave her hope after many “challenging” dealings with City Hall. Branch went from renting a commercial building here to purchasing one- to put down deeper roots in the community. A real investment in Fountain, in my opinion! But what came to follow was many unexpected and frustrating hurdles. Then one day she called Mayor Howells. She quickly realized this was someone who really cared and took her concerns very seriously. She later said the mayor’s genuine interest and taking the time (shortly after having knee surgery) to visit the new office site did a lot to restore her faith in our city...

 Branch is not alone in her feelings regarding our Mayor’s commitment to the people and fair, co-operative government. Jeri has gained the support and appreciation of numerous citizens here. She has years of experience in dealing with various community and governmental issues... She is not afraid of asking tough questions when that is what’s required.

 It’s like the old idea that a kid fresh out of college might think he has all the ideas to solve the world’s problems… when in reality- it is often the wise sage who has taken the time to truly listen, watch the successes and failures of the past, learned a great deal over time. It is that wise sage who has learned the art of knowing when to avoid distractions or disagreements and when it is essential to speak up and/or stand up- for herself or others. It is that wise sage who can navigate dark waters- and make it through with safe passage, always “carrying” the good of the people as her precious cargo.

We need a mayor who is responsive to people of all walks of life… and who stays in tune with people of all economic levels...This was a major part of the reason the late Paul Muuss (who passed away quite unexpectedly just days ago) was a proud supporter of Mayor Howells. He knew she had the proven track record and concern for people of all ages and  income levels.  One of Paul’s last actions (before his untimely death) was to write a letter to the editor stating his opinions why we need to re-elect Mayor Howells. Anytime rate increases and tax proposals were to be agenda items, Muuss was always at council meetings, speaking on behalf of the less fortunate and low-income, many of whom are senior citizens.  He understood their challenges because he had taken the time to do so… Another reason why he supported Jeri is that she does the same. She served on the “Save the senior center committee” when it looked like the center might lose vital funding from the county, just as she has supported the healthy community initiative and efforts. She knows the importance of preserving bus service for those who don’t have their own vehicles- bottom line, she knows people and she is there to serve us all!

Security Fire District needs your support to keep equipment current, hire additional firefighters
Before closing, I wish to comment on what I feel is an important, and potentially life-saving ballot proposal...Voters in the Security Fire Protection District are being asked in the mail-in ballot only election to approval a proposal to increase the mill levy- to allow the fire department the necessary funding it needs to hire what I consider to be ESSENTIAL additional staff (instead of having one paid firefighter on duty at each of its three stations- they would be able to have two people at each station... seems like a basic, common sense request to me!) Also, this will allow them to have state-of-the art equipment, which could easily one day make a life or death difference.

In my 26+ years at this newspaper, I have known the Security Fire Protection District board and Security Fire Department administrators and personnel to be very frugal and responsible in their spending and handling of funds. While I cannot vote on this ballot issue- I can urge those who can to vote yes on this issue- so I am- now!

PATTY'S ARCHIVES
4-11-07 | 4-25-07 | 5-2-07 | 5-16-07 | 5-23-07 | 6-6-07 | 6-13-07 | 6-20-07
6-13-07 | 7-4-07 | 7-11-07 | 7-18-07 |7-25-07 | 8-8-07 | 10-24-07