Assembly Diary

Running for an Assembly Seat

On October 6 we will hold our annual Borough elections. Three Assembly seats are up including those held by Mayor Botelho, David Stone and Sara Chambers. Ms. Chambers (Valley seat) has said she will not run for another term. The filing dates for petitions to run are from August 7-17th. http://www.juneau.org/clerk/elections/2009/2009_Regular_Election_Candidate_Page.php

Many people have thanked me for putting in the time on the Assembly, but I have received much more than I have given. First of all I love policy issues, and I enjoy spending time learning about them. That is no burden. Second, I have grown in my understanding and appreciation of our democratic process that truly gives power to the people. Third, and most importantly, I have made countless new connections and relationships with people and organizations throughout Juneau – far more than I would have on my own. I have been pushed to understand all sides of issues and to appreciate the positions of those who feel different than I do. I know some wish I was more single minded, more sure of the “right” answer to policy issues, but as with most things, the more I learn, the less I feel there is “one best way,” the more I feel it is so important to hear and understand all sides.

As I have interacted with so many people from so many backgrounds, I have also come to love Juneau, far more than I did previously. It is truly a wonderful place, filled with dedicated, public spirited people.

I am saying this because I want to encourage others to consider running for Assembly (or School Board). Yes, it is time consuming, but the rewards are great. [Just not like the New Jersey “rewards.”]

If any of you are interested in finding out more about the Assembly and what it takes to run a campaign, please give me a call and we can talk.