Residents have inquired if I utilized a checklist to help distinguish between candidates when the Town Council is appointing a new Council member to fill a vacancy. Since this is election season, and the criteria used to vote for a Council member is in many respects identical to that which could be utilized to appoint one, I offer the following criteria for consideration.
Each candidate should:
- Be knowledgeable of and interested in all of the important issues impacting Carefree residents, and not just be focused on one issue of particular interest to them
- Have an open and analytical mind
- Have a proven track record of successful accomplishments
- Work well with others and have a history of constructive community involvement
- Be knowledgeable of Carefree’s history, have a vision for Carefree’s future, but be open to knowledgeable input
- Be informed, impartial and fair in their judgement and actions
- Bring forward alternatives for consideration, analysis and discussion rather than just criticizing the ideas and possible solutions of others
- Support what they believe to offer the greatest good for Carefree residents
- Use the office for the greater public good, not for personal gain or gains for a few
- Conduct deliberations and processes openly in an atmosphere of respect and civility
Les Peterson
Carefree Mayor
