Sedona AZ (January 26, 2017) – I was traveling recently to another city and passed by a newspaper stand. The headline on the front page of the paper caught my eye. It read, “Is the council out of control?” I suppose there must have been some issue being addressed in the local area, but it got me to thinking about city councils in general and how they operate. I wondered what the public must think when they have something they wish to say and be heard and the best way to go about it in Sedona.
In my humble opinion, I would first like to state that I do not believe the City Council is out of control in Sedona. In fact, I believe the electors have been good at selecting the people that would represent them well on Council. The result of the most recent election is a diverse group of individuals with differing styles and positions taken when considering the issues that face the city. While opinions may vary and votes may not always be unanimous, the discussions are always respectful and provide valuable insight for all to consider prior to voting.
But, one of the most important things a citizen can do is to be willing to take the time to express an opinion or position. One should make the council aware of any information it may need to make the most informed decision possible. In this way one can make a difference and keep the Council from becoming “out of control”.
However, it would be unrealistic to think that Council may be in agreement on all issues, but a majority of the time it should appear to be so. It is my perception that most of the time the Council is of one accord and there are many unanimous votes.
So, step up to the podium for your three minutes of comments, but I encourage you to be prepared. Council takes the comments from the public very seriously. I would also offer that you can approach council members one-on-one via e-mail or phone or when you see them in person.
Can you identify your council members? This gives you several advantages. You can make your opinion known ahead of a meeting that allows a council member the opportunity to ask questions not generally afforded during the comments section of a meeting. It also allows time for further research into an issue and adds a human touch. But be sure to keep it respectful.
Stay on message and don’t go off on tangents as time is limited and you want to be heard. Stick to facts rather than anecdotes or cite sources that can help strengthen a position rather than making references to “everyone knows.” Rehearse ahead of time, especially if you are commenting at a meeting. I see many people run out of time and thus may miss their strongest points in a summary never heard. Suggested solutions are always welcome and much more helpful than a string of rambling complaints.
Lastly, remember if a vote goes the way you want it to, then you had a part in making that happen. At the same time, if it does not go as you wish, please know that you were heard, but that at times one may have to agree to disagree. Also remember, ask questions after a vote if you have time as councilors should be willing to explain their vote should you wish to understand why they voted the way they did.
The opinions expressed are entirely my own and in no way represent those of the city of Sedona or the City Council.