Letter to the Editor: LFP - A City Divided

To the Editor:

During my 32 years in LFP, I have watched the evolution of our City Council, and been participatory in some of the process.

In 32 years I've never seen a city so divided.

A year ago, our city officials suggested a tax plan that we voted down, we citizens had the chance to vote, making our voices heard. The Council found solutions and presented them to the public. This is democracy in action.

Formed by the divisive tax issue, the Gov. Watch group, comprised of people who left office or were voted out by the citizens, continue to create anger. I have no doubt that they are well meaning, but they are gone because the citizens wanted a change. Should we reinstate the people we eliminated from office? Should we trust the anger of those aligned with them? Are we asking the right questions?

This year, our choice of Mayor is extremely important with all the changes in personnel in City Hall. We need a Mayor who has a known reputation for working well with others. Sadly, we do not have this with candidate, Mary Jane Goss. There is a long-standing history of her having difficulty working with others. This worries me greatly in terms of how our Mayor will work and liaison with other communities.

I want a council that listens to the citizens, not one driven only by tax agendas, which could well hurt this city.

There are ways we can change how our needs are met, with greater efficiency, better communication, and different priorities such as creating a better tax base. Perhaps we have to think beyond the Towne Center.

Look at the history of the candidates. Ask questions of those who know or work with them. Make an informed decision.

Armand Micheline

Lake Forest Park