Editorial
The
(Political) Circle of Life
Gray
politics are never dull. In upsets at the polls, three
new members were elected, Denise Duda, Skip Crane,
and Andy Upham. Denise's victory was a surprise because
she was opposing Audrey Burns for an open seat. Ms.
Burns had been a council member and chair in previous
times and was widely known, with Ms. Duda appearing
on the political scene just two years ago. Skip Crane
was not well known, and Andy Upham has been known
through his participation on several committees and
at Council meetings just over the past year.
My take on it is that people wanted a change, and
spoke volumes about that desire through the biggest
stick a citizen can wield- their vote.
Continuing the surprises, Tuesday night's unexpected
ascension of Gary Foster to the Chairmanship rather
than heir apparent Matt Sturgis, Matt's refusal of
the nomination of Vice Chair and his subsequent resignation
are all important but not earth-shattering changes.
They are sudden and unexpected, true, but politics'
middle name is change and its last name is surprise.
The events of Tuesday night were sudden, but the cycle
will continue.
The Council will heed the citizens' clamor for change,
patient listening, and thoughtful application of rules
and decisions. The Council will appoint a new member
and that member will slide into the rhythm as surely
as did Richard Hall after Richard Barter resigned,
and as Skip, Andy, and Denise will after Richard Hall
was voted out.
I enjoyed Matt's humor and intellectual substance,
and I am sorry that he chose to resign for family
and personal reasons. He had said that Tuesday night's
action does not preclude him from future participation
in Gray politics, and I hope he does return someday
to once again fill the hall with his calm presence.
Meanwhile, welcome to new Council members, congratulations
to Mr. Foster, and let's begin another year with fresh
outlook and eager attention to productive work that
will result in an ever better community.
Editor Elizabeth Prata can be reached at editor@monumentnews.com
