Diverse views will strengthen city council

The Sisters City Council election has become a referendum on Brad Boyd's performance as mayor. The Nugget believes that performance merits another term of office.

Boyd has demonstrated a strong work ethic, attention to detail and thorough understanding of the complete picture of increasingly complex city governance. He is always well-prepared and asks the important, incisive questions.

Many problems that have plagued the city have improved markedly on his watch, most notably a dysfunctional planning department that is now not only functional, but certainly the most efficient and professional the City of Sisters has ever had.

Boyd is not without his weaknesses. His style can be abrasive to the point of rudeness. That is not a quality that benefits Sisters in dealing with the public or with other agencies. If an "attitudinal change" is needed at City Hall, that would be it. But Boyd's level of commitment and his experience make him a valuable contributor to the city and voters should keep him on the council.

Lon Kellstrom has a deep well of experience to draw from and his vigilance on spending has been a valuable asset to the council. He has served the citizens of Sisters well for a decade, through significant changes, and he is well-placed to guide the city through further changes and challenges.

Though Kellstrom and Boyd have clashed recently over the city's refuse collection business, there is more consensus on the council than meets the eye, a reflection of an ability to debate and work through differences.

Pat Thompson and Jerry Bogart have demonstrated public-spiritedness and the unique commitment to the community required to invest in creating businesses here. Either candidate will fit in well with a council that reflects a mix of views and backgrounds and a willingness to move beyond process and visioning to tackle the challenging issues that will face Sisters over the next four years.

Jim Cornelius, Editor

Kiki Dolson, Publisher