To the editor:
I’m running for one of the three Waldport City Council positions, and I’d like to share some thoughts about the two most prominent candidates for mayor. (A third candidate, Silas Lester, has not provided much information so I don’t know a lot about him.)
From what I’ve seen of the mayoral candidates so far in the campaign: No candidate is perfect. None of us (me included) has a magical personality that makes everyone like them. To me, then, when it comes to the mayoral candidates in particular, the focus should be on the difference in direction they might take us.
I can see the following distinctions between two mayoral candidates.
If you think Waldport needs tighter oversight, closer adherence to state regulations and laws, more transparency and accountability, and more cordial and caring communication with residents, then Tony Thimakis could be your choice. Tony is tireless in pointing out ways the city could improve and is an advocate for those who feel unheard.
If you think that Waldport is being run well as it is, it should continue on the course that is already set, city staff should be left alone to do their jobs, and the relationship between the city and constituents is on good footing, then Jan Hansen could be your choice. She has been a staunch defender of city staff and the current councilors throughout these last few tumultuous years.
There is an online candidate forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5 for everyone running for Waldport mayor and city council. A link to the Zoom event is on this page www.LWVLincolnCounty.org. I hope Waldport residents will watch live on Zoom, catch the YouTube recording afterward, and offer to help those you know who are not online see it as well.
Seeing all the candidates in action will help you make up your own mind.
— Laura Matthews/Waldport
Something voters should also consider is the pattern of complaints and accusations Tony Timakis has brought forward against the City. Several of the matters that have gone before outside agencies have resulted in dismissals, no charges or findings of no violation. That record is worth looking at when deciding who you want leading Waldport.
Tony has also been a leading figure in the effort to recall all six Waldport City Council members an effort Waldport voters ultimately rejected. He has also ridiculed city staff and is aligned with Heide Lambert, who I consider a joke of a mayor. Voters should consider whether that approach and those alliances reflect the leadership they want for Waldport.
Look at the records, ask questions, and decide what direction you want for Waldport over the next two years.
Jan Hansen brings years of involvement with our city and knowledge of how local government works. She isn’t afraid to speak up about topics with knowledge.
“Tony is tireless in pointing out ways the city could improve and is an advocate for those who feel unheard.”
There are other ways the above could be stated that are much less flattering. Pointing and complaining are easy. Doing and accomplishing take effort and work.