I'd like to appeal to all of you who have not yet decided who to vote for in the Athens mayoral election. Paul Wiehl is my clear choice for mayor. I believe that he will serve the city well as mayor.
I have lived and worked in Athens for the past 16 years and choose to live here largely because of the small town, family-friendly atmosphere and the support for and commitment to sustainable development by many in the community. These are values I want my 11-year-old son to remember about his town once he has grown up. It is important that any continued development, commercial or residential, be sustainable. Paul Wiehl will ensure that questions about sustainable development will be asked before projects move forward with the city's stamp of approval. Paul will advocate for keeping our Athens a small town with unique, family-friendly appeal.
I first met Paul Wiehl when he was running for city council and was most impressed with his knowledge about city government, which he gained by being willing to show up as a citizen and get involved. I remember when he was walking door-to-door when I lived on the far east side. I asked Paul about the East State St. widening project at the time and if green space would be included. He gave a direct and clear answer which was not necessarily what I wanted to hear. When he went on his way, I felt he had heard my concerns and was empathetic with my wishes for continued green space development. Over the next few years, I remember seeing Paul in and around the community as he was involved not only in city government but was also interested in meeting and speaking with all citizens of Athens. I have lived in two different neighborhoods within the city of Athens and Paul has been a visible city leader in both.
Paul is also visible on campus. He can often be seen attending various events just to get to know what is going on in the community
as he told me this past August when he showed up to a resource fair I had organized for Residence Life staff. I feel this shows he is sincerely interested in bridging the gap between city and university communities.
The qualities I've described above are those that I'd like to see in our next mayor. Let's all do our part to preserve Athens' unique small-town qualities. Paul Wiehl will provide leadership for the city to ensure these characteristics continue to exist. To me there is a clear choice; please join me in voting Paul Wiehl for Athens City mayor on November 6th.
Barb Harrison is a resident of Athens.
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