Document text
- Subscribe - Contact Us - Rate Card - Place an Ad Valley&State Backpage O&E Sports Archives Classifieds Faith&Beliefs Obituaries Revels October 20, 2004 Our View Morrison is ready to bridge the divided gap Living in a divided city during a historically divisive election, common ground among a strong majority is illusory, if not impossible. Somehow, John Morrison's bid to become the city's next mayor has found that common ground. Morrison seems palatable to the business community because of his level-headed, moderate approach to city government. Yet he has been embraced and endorsed by the local Green Party, many from within the environmental community as well as those who want a more measured, if not resistant approach to growth and development. Morrison has paid his dues on the city council and has earned the right to pick up the mantle of leadership. His open, direct approach to city government suggests he will offer a moderate approach to issues, and help to build unity, somehow, during these divided times. Unknown and inexperienced, Joaquin Saloma is commended for his interest in public service, but launching an apparent shoot-from-the-hip bid for the top post is not the way to show a serious commitment. Saloma may someday play a role in city politics, but not this year, not up against a formidable councilor like Morrison. That said, Morrison's bid for mayor is not without a serious challenger. Steve Hauck has served on the city council, and has a notable resume of credentials to lead the city. His commitment to the development of affordable housing resonates with many in the city. Hauck is correct when he says that affordable housing needs the serious commitment of the council if it is to succeed. Hauck would be a welcome addition on the city council, but the support to lead it all from the mayor's chair does not exist. A more appropriate step after four years off the council would have been to run for one of the other council seats. Unfortunately, Hauck has thrown his hat into the wrong race at the wrong time. For whatever reason the stars align, they appear to have aligned firmly behind Morrison in this race. Of course, we have no polls to back this up, nor can we say for sure that our hunches are correct. But unless a significant silent majority is lying in the weeds, come election day John Morrison will be named mayor of Ashland. Morrison's efforts to reach out to all parties that make up the vast complexity called Ashland has in the end earned him his right to lead. We believe that Morrison is up the task, and will continue to lead in a way that respects and appreciates the involvement of all Ashlanders. DailyTidings.com Home Page Valley&State | Backpage | O&E | Sports | Archives | Weather | Classifieds Columnists | Faith&Beliefs | Obituaries | Revels | Subscribe | Contact Us Copyright 2004 Ashland Daily Tidings and Ottaway Newspapers All Rights Reserved Click Here Site Search: .:Advertisements:. RESOURCES - Mail Tribune News - ODOT Road Cams