A unique opportunity to lead in Clearlake
With only two candidates certified to run for three open seats on the Clearlake City Council, councilmembers decided on Wednesday to move forward with an election that would require at least one qualified write-in candidate to secure the third opening. This was in lieu of making appointments to the dias.
It’s a motion I support, as the appointment of the two ballot qualified candidates--myself and councilmember Joyce Overton--would limit the council’s ability to appoint future members if ever necessary. It’s also the right move for our community to have an open, transparent election, and it gives our residents the chance to rally around new potential write-in candidates.
The results of the nomination process may lead some to believe that there is a lack of community engagement in Clearlake, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are countless people working hard to make a difference everyday. It’s just happening behind the scenes. From our school board reimagining what education looks like in the “New Normal” to our Chamber of Commerce and local businesses fighting to keep our commercial districts open, it’s not surprising that the nomination period has been overshadowed by COVID-19 but it doesn’t have to define this election cycle.
Our city is full of talented, intelligent, compassionate individuals. This is a moment where someone needs to step forward, raise a hand, and commit to being a positive agent of change in Clearlake.
Ahead of us is an incredible opportunity to start writing the next chapter for Clearlake. We have a dedicated staff at city hall that has excelled in the face of disasters, lack of funding, and a pandemic over the years, along with a group of city councilors that have very complimentary backgrounds. Every interaction I’ve had with Mayor Russ Cremer, Vice Mayor Dirk Slooten, and Councilmember Overton has been positive and devoid of self interest. Whether or not you agree with their policies, it is a group that truly cares about the welfare of our residents. I expect them to be exceptional partners over the next four years.
This is a unique moment for our city. I decided to run for the Clearlake City Council because I have the background to break the stalemate we’ve had with some of our more difficult challenges around business development and housing. With a lack of political opportunists gunning for the third seat this election cycle, I feel we have a window to rally around another difference maker in our community.
If you’ve been on the fence about running for public office, now is the time to raise your hand with me. Let’s be the catalyst for the change we want to see in Clearlake.