On my 93rd birthday I filed to run again for City Council

To The Daily Sun,

Thursday, August 8t, was my 93rd birthday.

Thursday, August 8, I officially entered the upcoming election for city councilor for Ward 4.

This is a position I held for 12 years, until Jan. 2018.

It was perhaps the most satisfying 12 years of my life as it regards to work and duty. Family will always be first.

I have lived here for 63 years, so my roots are deep, and because of that, I believe in the kind of community we are and why I feel we should stay that way. Change is not always the solution. Keeping what we have and investing in doing just that is what is important to a lot of us. The huge influx of retirees who have come into our city have done so because they liked what we are.

Being a city councilor is a privilege and one that has to be taken very seriously. After all, you are there to represent a lot of people, not only in your own ward, but all of the City.

Because I served for 12 years, most of the public know who I am and where I stood and where I stand now on many matters. I have been outspoken in letters to the editor on current subjects, just as I did while in office. Occasionally, I attend meetings, but I watch every meeting on TV and know what is going on.

As a councilor I would research matters that came before the council and would give my thoughts on them, and would ask questions that needed answering, and would present a differing point of view.

Today, I find there is very little debate, hard hitting questions, or voting in opposition to most of the important financial projects. Motions are made and all hands go up in unison.

I have heard from many people, most of whom I do not even know, asking me to run again. They need and want a voice that will at least put out the facts or at least a different point of view. They fear the tax cap is in jeopardy, as do I, and I would call for a pledge from candidates that this will not happen.

Age, sex, or health should make no difference in who represents you. Is the person knowledgeable? Is the person a dedicated Laconian? Does this person have a record over the years of serving the city of Laconia with good works. These are the things you should ask before making your choice.

I have all of the above and experience in this job which makes the transition back into office much easier.

I urge you all to consider entering the race. Entry at City Hall is open until Aug.16.

Brenda Baer

Laconia