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When I was reelected mayor in 2005, only 13 percent of registered voters turned out to the polls. I was gratified to be re-elected to a fourth term, but disappointed in the low turnout. Perhaps, I thought, it was because the election didn’t coincide with general or midterm elections, so people were less motivated.
While I understand that can be the case when national issues and candidates aren’t on the ballot, I think we can do better. National issues are important, but aren’t the issues in your backyard important on a different level? Please vote Nov. 2.
This will be my last column as mayor of our great town, and I appreciate Monthly publishing my columns for the past 11 years. I know that elected officials tend to list their accomplishments upon leaving office, but I find that to be self-serving. All the accomplishments over the past 15 years as your mayor have resulted not from a single person; rather, they are the result of a strategic-minded and hard-working council, professional staff and supportive residents.
I’ve always maintained that the success of our town is dependent not on its local government but its residents, non-profit organizations and businesses. Since the island incorporated in 1983, it has gradually matured and achieved many of the objectives of incorporation. If we are to continue to achieve great things we must evolve, but we must do so in a strategic, well-planned manner. The next mayor and council inherit a fiscally responsible operation managed by one of the best town managers in the state. I wish the next council the best.
Being your mayor has been an honor. As I’ve traveled around the state and country, I’ve found that everyone knew about our beautiful island. Residents have much to be proud of, and we all know how blessed we are to live here. It seems a cliché to say it was a privilege to be your mayor, but I mean it from the bottom of my heart. I’ve lived here most of my life, and will remain committed to the island I love.
Finally, nothing I have accomplished would have happened without the love and support of my wife, Mary Ann. Her unwavering support and counsel to me will be forever appreciated.
