Editorial/Op
Central Deserves Better
By |
The city elections of 2010 gave rise to a political battle between two factions in Central. Now election campaigns, Council meetings, internet discussions, and news coverage all bear witness that these two relatively small factions within a large city just can’t seem to get along. We may try to pretend the divisions don’t exist, but we know they’re there, and unfortunately the squabbling can overshadow the actual issues. It’s unfortunate that this has happened, and I apologize if in any way Central Speaks has contributed to the negative tone, because Central Deserves Better.
I’m not asking anyone to own up to any level of responsibility. At this point, is it really important who “started it” or who is to blame? In my 20’s I was told by one of my mentors that even when we are right, we should “find a way to disagree…without being so disagreeable.” I’m just asking everyone to step back, take a deep breath, and look for ways to respectfully disagree. Far too often we have been disagreeable, and for that we should be sorry, because Central Deserves Better.
There are certainly legitimate issues on which people disagree in Central. I enjoy a spirited discussion as much as anyone. I’m not advocating that anyone abandon their principles and compromise their beliefs just to get along. For example, I have strong beliefs that our City Council has made some poor legislative decisions in the past two years. I will continue to print the facts of what happens, and I will still write this column and express my opinions. However, beginning today, I will change the tone of my reporting and opinions to bring you the story of what is happening in Central and why, while doing my best to emphasize the positive, because Central Deserves Better.
There are close to 27,000 people in Central, and we share many common values. We all care about what happens in our City, but most are not involved in the process and just want good decisions to be made without all of the angst and squabbling. Many have simply chosen to be involved with their families, schools, churches, civic groups and sports programs, and those things are the backbone of Central. Government and information sources are certainly necessary, but should operate efficiently, responsibly, and respectfully. Those of us who are involved in Central’s government or who express our opinions to others in person, on the internet or in the news media should all commit to “disagree without being so disagreeable”. I pledge to do my part, and I hope you’ll join me, because Central Deserves Better.
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