By Councilor PETE SHEEHEYWhen I knocked on doors four years ago and asked people what they wanted from county government, they told me to go ahead with the most important investments for our future, but don’t spend too much, and make sure we get good value for taxpayers’ dollars. That’s what I have worked for.
I am focused as a Councilor on working toward a better future for this town, based upon listening to the community. A growing and diversified local economy will make this a better place for all of us, and for the Lab to attract good people and their families. We are fortunate we can afford investments in infrastructure, economic development and quality of life, while still holding reasonable financial reserves.
The biggest issue that I see today is: how do we prepare for and find consensus on this town’s future? There’s a new generation coming to work here, and they see a lot of the same things I saw when I first came: a healthy and beautiful environment, challenging work, and friendly, interesting people. This is a town of many voices and opinions, but we can and do listen to each other and ultimately move forward together.
The cards I leave when I come to people’s doors say I’m about communication, prioritization, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility. It’s important that we listen to everyone, including the citizens who are dealing with county government, and the employees who are directly serving them. When we have heard what’s working and what isn’t, that’s how we will find consensus about priorities for local government: a civil community discussion.
Sustainability and fiscal responsibility can work together. We should transition to less polluting, more renewable energy generation and county operations. If we do this right, it will save money.
Los Alamos will remain a prosperous town, even with the uncertainties of Lab contracts and budgets. We can afford the important things, as long as we make good choices. You can see some more of my ideas, and send me your own, through my website, www.petesheehey.com.
I would be honored to serve you on the Council for another four years. Thank you.
