(7/2018) Civility at the local level
As you read this article, voters in Frederick County have made their choices for a number of seats at various levels of government in the primaries. This will narrow the field and bring forward those who will be challenged in the general election in November. As I ponder the current roster of candidates, it is my sincerest hope that we all
rise above the petty politics witnessed by daily polarization in Washington, D.C.
Those running for County Council with a platform based in honesty and integrity will be happy they ran an above board campaign when elected to office and then sit next to each other on the dais.
Those who opt to run negative, critical and hurtful ads tend to obfuscate the truth for political gain. I have never understood this tactic. The voters are all residents of our county and our county brims with those of tremendously generous natures who tend to desire representatives who are civil, honest and believe in supporting this
county to the best of his/her abilities. Being honest in your positions will foster trust as you work with any diverse group – especially in politics.
Each elected official is selected by the people as their representative into a position of service to their constituents. Sometimes I wonder if this is truly understood. We are here to serve others, not in a selfish pursuit for whatever the individual’s reason.
Imagine when our Council Members respect each other, work collaboratively for the sake of all the residents, and have civil discourse. I’m not na've – there will certainly be strong views and disagreements on what is best for our county. However, it has been my long standing position that folks can disagree but don’t have to be disagreeable
in the process. There is common ground. We need to listen to all sides, mediate, negotiate and compromise to accomplish anything of substance. I always learn more when I listen with both ears – especially to opposing viewpoints. That’s the reason behind my open door policy. It has allowed me to hear other’s perspectives to complicated issues and helped me foster
deeper insights. Best part of my job!
Civility in action fosters more trust from the people and helps bridge an almost inherent distrust of government.
I don’t think the majority of people want to see baseless accusations, name-calling, disrespectful behavior, negative comments and misinformation as a regular occurrence among their duly elected officials. I don’t believe in airing negativity or grievances in public. There have been times when I’ve been frustrated and concerned about
issues. From time to time, disagreements come up with the County Executive. I have always voiced my concerns either one-to-one as I meet with her weekly to discuss county issues or over the phone. Never have I held any personal animus or disparaged her in public. Over time, these issues have been or are being resolved.
It is my hope that the next council of seven people work cohesively together and move the county forward. That will definitely be a sharp contrast to what we see in D.C.! Just think of the possibilities of a positive, impactful council working to preserve, protect and enhance the overall landscape of our beautiful county. It is truly
achievable.
As duly elected officials, we represent the residents and should respect their vote through our civil interpersonal behavior and conversations. I think if we move away from today’s version of politics as usual, we can represent the people as they deserve to be represented. You deserve high level conversations and representatives that
fulfill their duties and responsibilities to keep this county beautiful and moving forward.
