Jerry Lindsey wrote this article.
A lot of attention is currently mustered for the upcoming Tuesday, November 3, 2020, elections, but the local scene also will be focused on change in the elections being held next spring. The April 2021 ballot will offer a new candidate for Mayor of Morrison, IL. Mayor Everett Pannier will end his second term without a reelection.
With that seat being available, a few requirements of any interested candidate need to be understood.
Certain mandatory requirements exist for a Mayoral candidate: no felony conviction; must live within the Morrison City limits; must be a registered voter; may not have any defaulted statement to the City of Morrison.
So, if you reviewed the above mandates and still own an interest, a few other considerations must be researched, to further your venture toward the seat in City Government.
Are you informed on the affairs of the City Council? If knowledge of City Council procedures and challenges are new to you, perhaps your attendance at the bi-monthly meetings would be an educational experience.
Are you recognizable within the City of Morrison? Knowing who to work with and what issues people are concerned about are key factors for maneuvering within the Mayor’s responsibilities. Confirming support of local leaders would be an enhancement tool of great value.
Are you familiar with the City’s budget? It is posted for citizen viewing on the City of Morrison website. The Mayor must work with the City Administrator and City officials to create a budget that falls within the parameters of the available funds. It generates an action plan that maintains a desirable community for all.
Have you fulfilled the requirements to be placed on the ballot? A petition with a required number of signatures must be timely submitted for your name to appear on the April ballot.
Are you running under a party recognition? Consider which party has the majority of followers. This will enable you to pick popular sides on issues, to garner the most votes and followers.
Are you familiar with the City’s history? It is proven that in order to envision the future, you must understand the past.
Are you a leader? True leaders inspire others. It takes citizen leadership to guide the course of a community.
The University of Birmingham simplifies the necessary characteristics for an effective community leader:
- openness to learn
- desire to help others through public administration
- ability to engage
- understanding of commercialization.
If a candidate owns a true desire to lead the community of Morison, IL, then the time to act on that intent in now.
Preparation and understanding are major undertakings. The office of Mayor of any City will welcome that individual to take the community forward and establish a proud and safe home for its citizens.