West Linn Mayor’s Speech Stresses Optimism and Revival
Ron Ares April 17th, 2008
If you’ve followed the West Linn news, you know that the city has had a few bumps and bruises over the past couple years. Mismanagement, embezzling, poor budget and audit practices, and so on.
In his State of the City transcript, published by the West Linn Tidings, Mayor Norm King acknowledges it:
…our more recent history is riddled with mismanagement, which is like a restrictor plate on our forward movement
But the mayor is bullish on the future:
I will be the first to admit that there are times that public service can be daunting. Many of you have likely read the blog posts, or seen the public testimony on television, and it can seem like we’re constantly faced with vitriol and spite. Some people in this community seem intent on promoting a message of gridlock and distrust, and it can drag down your spirit and make you question your motives.
But then, something happens. It might result from an article in the newspaper, a story you hear over coffee, or an event you attend in your neighborhood. You learn about things happening in West Linn and it gives your attitude a kick in the pants. You realize that this community isn’t defined by the incivility of some, but the positive activism of many. If you think about your past year, I know you’ve had similar experiences where you’re reminded why West Linn is a great place to live.
The mayor goes on to cite a number of examples of community spirit and volunteerism. We certainly hope civic officials regain momentum and add strong leadership to the favorable community and natural attributes that make West Linn a great place to live.
Read the Tiding’s full coverage of Mayor King’s address.
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