With the election beginning 19 February and keeping it candidate-fair this is the last Mayor’s Column article. “Thank you,” Tim Fleischer, for space allowing over 80-articles.
Without offending, may I please respectfully offer a few unsolicited election thoughts to consider:
(1). Salado residents are the most intelligent, respected, street-smart voters in Central Texas. You are the “Gateway to the Capitol.” Count the number of “Cosper” and “Ruiz” signs – they know your vote is critical. Never underestimate your importance and status.
(2). This is a critical Salado election. It determines your future. It is neither Republican, Democrat, Tea Party, nor Independent. It is not liberal, conservative, or somewhere-in-the-middle. Realistically, it is not what individuals want or do not want; about change; or personal vendettas. It is beyond that. It is about Salado’s role in the community, county, state, and national affairs. Every small Texas Village is watching Salado closely. They are looking for an example to follow. Salado Village is a “Stakeholder in Texas.”
(3). If last year was difficult, the next two years will be three-times as challenging. There will be many monthly meetings with committees, ordinances, and votes. There is no pay. To meet the challenges, the elected candidates must have a healthy stamina/energy, broad vision for the Village, and passion for people. This is a time not to lead by fear, or what-may-be, or “perhaps,” – these are “real-time” issues that demand “real-time” answers that are not swayed by popularity, agendas, or easy-fixes.
(4). In the midst of new families moving to Salado are some great future leaders. They are young, smart, and love this Village. Encourage them to run for office, serve on committees, and become involved. The daily obituaries in the local newspaper remind us they are the future. Encourage them to step forward.
(5)There is a difference between being a Manager and a Leader. A Manager is one who manages the office and goes home wondering why. A leader is one who steps-out; knows their way is not the only way; takes risks without fear of criticism; and remains community focused. They know their answers, will not always be right, but strive to-do-the-right-thing-for-the-right-reason. They know Teddy Roosevelt’s words by heart:
“Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure… than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.”
Thank you for reading all the articles. I wish you the best in your future leader selections. I will continue writing my personal blog, “Salado Mayor Blog. Com and a broader, personal blog, Skipinaround.com.
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