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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - PROCLAMATION - 07/17/2012 - ''IF I WERE THE MAYOR'' ESSAY, BY KIERRA VAUGHAN,Kierra Vaughan Mr. Parker 3/18/12 Essay If I Were the Mayor… Although merely one woman addressed her concerns tonight, I'm sure there are others of you with the same questions. As mayor, I am here to answer and respond to those concerns accordingly. I know that our country has been facing economic hardships and different types of adversity, sometimes creating strain and resentment, but we (as a community and a country) will see it through, like we always do. Oftentimes certain things that we experience here in Fort Collins, Colorado can relate directly to our country's recession. Sometimes not. Sometimes that can result in anger, exasperation, and grief, as an effect of oftentimes drastic measures. I'm here to tell you that anything you have been feeling is completely relevant and significant to us. Our government is by the people and for the people, therefore your feelings and opinions are vital to us. However, allow me to address your statement directly, Miss. Firstly, let me inform you that I am aware our program is not perfect. We make mistakes, just like all other human beings on the planet. And I am sorry for any imperfection that may have affected you or your family directly. Although we may not be 100% right all the time, we strive for perfection. Every single decision we make is for the greater good of the people, (or what we may think the greater good truly is.) Every single decision is based on the effect it will have on the community as a whole. Not a single decision is influenced by greed or selfishness, it is all for you. Because that is not only our occupation, but our duty; to serve and protect the interest and well being of the people. Secondly, I am going to explain what we do and our exact purpose, in case some of you are unsure. Like I've said before, out purpose is the help the people. We do this by keeping the town running efficiently and by looking into the well being and the health of the community. We organize road systems to be built and repaired. Without our program the roads would be cracked and dangerous, causing accidents. Also, we provide the town with police and fire‐ fighter departments . Without said departments, our town would be an anarchy, no justification of the law, no help for the citizens when they need it. We help the economy by promoting businesses directly tied to Fort Collins. Without our aid, many businesses would go bankrupt and families would be left with nothing. When natural disasters occur, we are the first people to arrive at the scene and the last to leave, ensuring the safety of the people. Without that help, a flood or big freeze would leave the city in ruins, with nobody to clean up the mess. And most directly tied to you and your family ma'am , is our concern for the physical health (and recreation) of our town. We build pools and ice‐rinks, skate‐parks and playgrounds so that all ages of our citizens may enjoy each other's company and the pure joy of having a good time. Without such activities, children would grow up without experiencing some of the true treasures of being a kid. Children are young, innocent, and adventurous, and they need to enjoy their childhood to its full potential before the opportunity is missed. That time as a kid can never be recovered or relived. Lastly, I'm going to hint you in on a little secret about our job. We do so much for the town, but why? Why do we do the things that are done? Well, we do them because we care for every single one of you sitting out there listening to me. We care for the people without homes and without jobs. We care for those being oppressed when the law is broken against them or to harm them. We care about the lower class, the middle class, and the upper class. In our eyes there isn't much of a difference, and we act as a community, one entity, united. We care for the new infant being born right this minute and for the World War Two veteran holding his great grandchild for the first time. We do the job because we want everyone to be safe, healthy, well nourished, well protected, and to have the best time here in Fort Collins that is possible. This is my secret to you. We are running low on time, but I hope I have addressed your concerns to the best of my abilities. If you still have questions or are not satisfied with the answers, feel free to contact me. Thank you for attending this council meeting, especially the woman out there who spoke up. Hope we have been of service to you and your small children, ma'am.