January 23, 2014
The Council Chamber was full and a business like
atmosphere was felt in keeping with the character of our new mayor. Council
Members appeared to have fallen into step with the direction mapped by Mayor
Pike. A change in methodology was taking place, a comfort zone had been
found in the upcoming appointment of Bette Arial as the new council member.
Perhaps the most telling sign of change was the
transfer of power taking place. Ever so slight the large ship of city
government is beginning to turn. As I walked towards the Council Chamber I
passed City Manager Gary Esplin, who appeared somber and tired as he walked
away. I was somewhat saddened, yet I knew
that this day was inevitable. A meaningful change was in progress. A positive
change of how business is to be done.
The excitement and apprehension was immediately felt
upon entering the packed Council Chamber, not only the usual humdrum of
activity but you could also feel the serious nature of what was to take place.
I was fortunate in that I was able to sit next to
Tara Dunn whom I have come to know and appreciate and who like many others I
have come to recognize as a good friend, one with courage and ethics that I
admire.
Slowly and methodically the process of revealing
the identity of Mayor Pike’s replacement on the council moved forward. Due diligence having been applied, all
requirements having been satisfied. BETTE ARIEL was appointed and sworn into
office. A GREAT CHOICE!
Bette is a woman with proven credentials of
competency and a person who represents high moral values. A person I am sure
we will all come to appreciate.
I believe Bette is a good fit as she has worked side
by side with Mayor Pike on Dixie State University Board of Trustee’s and they
appear to be able to work well together and share a conservative approach to
governing.
It will be interesting to see how our new council
addresses the pressing issue of overseeing how City Code Enforcement issues are
addressed. Perhaps Conflict of Interests and Ethics will be included in the
process and the findings be made known to the public…TRANSPARENCY IN BLOOM.
YES, the next few years will be interesting as we watch
the political future of Mayor Pike unfold and watch the behind the scenes
activity of the supporting cast.
Many issues and challenges confront the developing City
of St. George and we look forward with great anticipation on how we are to
conduct ourselves if we are to succeed.
The issue….. Raised by Tara on
the oppression of those…..Not of the Mormon faith in City Government will most
certainly not go away. The solution may be found in VOTER turnout and in how we
as individuals treat our fellow man.
Please forward your concerns on how our city is
governed and what your section of the community may be in need of to me.
Thank you, Ed
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