MyWHaT

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Election Year

Who’s voting? Who’s not?

2013 is an election year in the City of Traverse City. It’s an off-year, so low voter turnout is expected. As we highlighted previously, that presents an opportunity to demographics that don’t normally turn-out the vote, but with a bit of a bump can really impact the election.

This year, the 7 person City Commission could theoretically see a new majority of newly elected as three City Commissioner seats, as well as the mayoral seat, are open.

The commissioners whose terms are up are Mary Ann Moore, Mike Gillman, and Jody Bergman. The former two have expressed that they won’t be running and the latter is a probable to run as an incumbent. Like wise, the current mayor, Michael Estes, is expected to seek re-election.

It’s early, our minds are likely on how to take advantage of warming temps and longer daylight hours rather than fall elections. Still, as engaged citizens I’m curious what type of candidate you’re looking for or looking to avoid.

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What do you look for in a candidate?

What values, traits, experiences, skills, knowledge, personalities, walk-scores….do you look for in candidates for City Commission (or other local seats)?

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I invite you to take moment and to leave a comment with your answer. For today’s post, comments will be published below in the comments field. As always, the comment policy is in effect.

I request that comments refrain from mentioning any individuals specifically. Comments with names will be approved with the name removed. There’s plenty of time to discuss the who later, but for now let’s focus on what you, the informed, engaged, and considerate voters, look for in local representation.

If you’re interested in running, here’s the simplified process for either Mayor or City Commissioner:

1. Pick up nominating packets from the City Clerk’s Office at Governmental Center.
2. Complete nominating petitions with ___ signatures.
3. Complete other documentation.
4. Turn in all forms by August 13, 2013 at 4-PM.
5. Knock on a lot of doors.
6. If you win, you start on November 11th.

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What values, traits, experiences, skills, knowledge, personalities, walk-scores…do you look for in candidates for City Commission?

Related (tangentially, generational differences) articles:

• Millennial medium chill: What the screwed generation can teach us about happiness (Grist)
• How Generation X is Shaping Government (Governing)

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Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are that of the author and do not represent the opinions of writers previously published here or any of the organizations, committees, commissions or other affiliation the authors may belong to, unless so stated.