Commentary; Posted: 8/23/06
Preparing for change in New Scandia
Debi Campobasso
Guest Columnist
Scandia is on the brink of change and if you havenít heard, will likely be the, City of Scandia, before the year end.
Whether you are supportive or not, you should pay attention in the next couple months. Incorporation is an opportunity to re-establish our priorities as a community.
As a city, our officials will likely have more control over the future direction of Scandia, particularly land use. That doesnít have to mean, however, that we are giving in to high density and giving up our rural character.
But it does mean, it is extremely important that we have leaders that understand what residents believe to be the community priorities.
As a Scandia Park and Recreation Committee member for the past four years, I have had the opportunity to work with some of our leaders on park projects and tried to stay on top of what is going on around town.
If incorporation is approved by the administrative law judge, we will have the opportunity to vote for a mayor and four city council members.
It is time to ask ourselves, ìwho do we want in these positions?î What if candidates need to file to run for these positions by the end of August? Are we ready for that?
I would love to see some choices on the ballot this time. I would like to start some conversation using the discussion forum on www.scandiaminnesota.com, about what our community priorities are, and how we can ensure the leadership candidates we select, will preserve them.
We need leaders who:
ïWelcome the contributions and expertise all residents have to offer;
ïRespect the differences among Scandia residents;
ïCommunicate with residents on a regular basis;
ïAre readily accessible to the public;
ïHave high expectations of the city/town staff and the customer service they provide with our tax dollars;
ïThink progressively and provide a vision for the future;
ïDemand accountability on behalf of the taxpayers of the community.
Itís time for Scandia residents to get involved in politics, like it or not.
Pay attention during these next few months about who will become the future leaders of Scandia and get to know the candidates.
All current town board members need to run in a new city election if they are interested in continuing their leadership role.
If you are interested in taking on a leadership position in Scandia, now is the time to consider it.
Letís be positive, proactive and prepared for this change. Visit www.scandiaminnesota.com and join in on this important conversation or just go to the site for continual updates on the time frame in which all this is taking place.
Together, we can make a difference. Letís get started.
Debi Campobasso lives in Scandia and is a member of the park and recreation committee.
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