This review wraps up my first year serving as a Lincoln County commissioner chosen by you. Thus far, it has been a remarkable adventure, and I am looking forward to our ongoing expedition together to ensure county government provides essential public services in an efficient, effective, and respectful manner. There is rarely a day I am not reminded that my effectiveness is bolstered by the wisdom of our community, a workforce of 500 employees and volunteers, and the expertise of my fellow elected officials. County government does not sleep. Thanks to all who show up and participate in the democratic process at the level of local government. We are stronger together.
We have a diverse community, with a broad range of interests. Let us find reverence for the political process and the needed decision making required of us. Not all societies have the option to collaborate as we do. Our voices can be heard. Let’s also support those that remain unheard. Equity and inclusion can make our community stronger, safer, and more resilient. Seeking to understand by listening with intent is immeasurably valuable. Responding instead of reacting, facing our vulnerabilities, looking inward and putting ourselves in others’ shoes can bear fruit and most often does. READ THE FULL POST HERE
And truth is… I was not ready. I needed more time, a pandemic and a wildfire to dig deep and ultimately discover that leadership is about mindset; leadership is about living one’s intention. Leadership is about work ethic. It is about elevating us together as a collective unit.
One thing I love about this photo is that man in the background… County Clerk Dana Jenkins. So many years serving our community! So many stories of how my father and my uncles worked together on their hot rods with Dana. It is surreal. What would my father think of this moment?
We have elections so that we might choose our representation in government. A county commissioner should seek empowerment, wisdom, and guidance from The Community. I will demonstrate new methods of interface – more engagement between elected official and constituent than previously experienced.
We are all busier than ever. I want to respect your time and energy. I believe we can leverage technology to communicate more efficiently. But, I also want you to experience access to me as your representative: In the coming months I will be creating those opportunities and I hope you participate.
I WILL find a way to use cats (and possibly unicorns) in a political campaign! I want to have a little fun where possible! As a county employee (public official) it is IMPORTANT that we refrain from political activism while on the clock. I have shared very little about my political aspirations with my coworkers. We are human beings and it is human to talk about what “I did over the weekend”. It makes working in the Commissioners Office a little unusual in this regard.. Monday is going to be interesting.
My commitment to you – is to help us – explore our problems both real and perceived. Can local government resolve the major issues of our times? How can we have more agency in the policy decisions made by our government? Important questions to ask and investigate. Let’s have these conversations and build more trust and participation.
This is just the beginning of continued relationship. An opportunity for me to demonstrate that democracy is alive and well in Lincoln County. An opportunity to improve the communications landscape around County Government. An opportunity to further prepare my fellow community and internal team in disaster preparation. An opportunity to contribute to how a community might THRIVE : Housing, childcare, broadband, equity, environment, healthcare and MORE… all important and all touchpoints for a County Commissioner to weigh-in regarding our community wellbeing.
I ask for your support and your faith. That we might lead our community as a unified whole.
