Pete's point

After having a couple of conversations with some folks, and reading some thoughts from commenters, I've been mulling over my initial argument for a younger, moderate-to-progressive to seek the mayoral slot in Athens-Clarke County.

One argument, which is well taken, is that 'young' doesn't necessarily mean 'in touch with the community.' Another one, also valid, suggests that the community needs more younger moderate-to-progressives on the Athens-Clarke County Commission in voting positions rather than simply heading up the government.

Still, something about Pete's argument in Flagpole absolutely resonates with me ...

The rumors we’ve been hearing are apparently true: Nancy Denson will run for mayor. On the old Athens City Council and for a long time as Athens-Clarke County Tax Commissioner, Nancy Denson has been a model elected official: responsive, innovative and involved. She would no doubt be the same as mayor. But her presence in the race means that some well qualified younger candidates will not run for mayor, out of respect for Nancy or fear of her vote-getting ability. Thus, Nancy is almost in the position of the mayor’s seat being hers for the asking. This doesn’t mean it will be good for Athens-Clarke County. When the present mayor finishes her second term next year, we will need bold new leadership enhanced by energy and vision. As always, we will face new challenges in a rapidly changing economic and governmental environment. We will need a mayor with fresh ideas who can mobilize the whole community to address the current and future needs of this multifaceted city. This is not the time for a caretaker government from a mayor enjoying a last hurrah. Nancy Denson has served us nobly and effectively for a long time. Here’s hoping that a candid assessment of what Athens needs and what Nancy has to offer will lead her to decide that what she has already given our community is enough.