As published in The View, February 2024:
President
Hello Neighbors, I am not running for reelection for a seat on the Board of Directors. I explained the various reasons during my Board Report at our last open session meeting, so I won’t repeat here why I chose not to run. I do want to thank all those who trusted me to deliver responsible leadership, and I will continue to volunteer in some capacity going forward.
I would like to suggest the following to all the candidates running for the three seats available in the next election:
First, candidates must remember that they are representing all residents, not just those supporting them. This may sound obvious, but believe me when I say that this is something that each candidate needs to understand going into any election. It may surprise those who run that there is a tremendous amount of information that only a sitting Board member has access to, and thus, there will be times that a previously held belief will need to be reconsidered, much to the dismay of their backers.
Second, candidates and residents must refrain from personal attacks during the election, as this has absolutely no place in our community. We all have opinions about the best way to get from A to Z. Candidates will differ on issues and their solutions. However, only positive debate will lead to constructive solutions. I will be evaluating candidates on their:
- conduct in forums and around the community.
- creativity in reaching solutions.
- professionalism.
- positivity and willingness to work with others.
Third, I mentioned to Carolyn Collins (chair of the Nominating Committee) that displaying candidate campaign yard signs was not a good idea and, if I were to run, I would not put them up regardless of what the other candidates would do. I am incredibly happy to announce that ALL candidates have agreed not to use signs for this upcoming election. I am extremely proud of each one of them for taking this positive step.
Finally, I wish all the candidates good luck.
Remember, whoever wins must work with the other four Board members for the betterment of our community. Compromise on issues is a lost art these days, but I believe it is the key to finding positive solutions for both short- and long-term goals.
I look forward to seeing how the next Board responds to the needs of the community and will fully support their efforts to find solutions to the issues of the coming year.
Contact the author at jerry.conrad@scshca.com.