|
|
On Being Mayor
by
Mayor
Ronald Oertle
Being Mayor of Bisbee for three years now has been one of the great
adventures of my life. There has been so much to learn and understand
that at times it seems the more I learn the less I know.
The most enjoyable part of being mayor has been meeting
so many people that otherwise I would have never known. I have always
believed that each individual is a sacred treasure full of goodness
and greatness if it can be brought forth to its true fruition. Another
wonderful experience for me have been the travels to the state capitol,
SEAGO meetings (the mayor of Bisbee is automatically on the board of
directors), and to a few economic forums. Having lunch with the governor
with six other officials was an interesting experience, and one I shall
never forget. However, even though I have met many important people
from around the state, the people of Bisbee will always be my favorite
people.
The first responsibility of the mayor is to
look out for the safety of the people, whether that concern is having
adequate police and fire protection, safe drinking water, or a clean
environment.
My second responsibility is to make sure
the city is fiscally sound, as the city's money is your money.
Another more subjective responsibility
is to include more people in the events of city government. Even though
contentious at times this goal of inclusion is being accomplished. My
dream is an active citizenry that debate the great issues in our city
in a civil and uplifting manner. The more ideas that are engaged the
better our city will be. Debate is a rewarding endeavor, even if one's
position is defeated, as a learning process has taken place.
The former mayor, Mr. Beauchamp
told me before I entered office that the city will totally dominate
my thoughts and he was correct, as I think about the city all my waking
hours, and in my dreams a lot too. So to the former mayors I say thank
you for your dedication and your efforts when you were in office. I
will continue to do my best but I will need the help of the citizens.
I will make mistakes and the citizens must point them out to me. I will
stand strong for what I believe in, sometimes winning sometimes losing
on a council vote.
The trust the community
has placed in me for these three years is the highest honor ever bestowed
upon me, and I always remember that my election victories were not about
me, they were about the community.
~ Mayor Oertle
|
|
|
