Journal

Perspectives and Experiences:

My comments are my own!

Taking the Oath of Office, 12-6-22

Writing About Being an Elected Public Servant...

My earlier self would never have thought that I'd run for any elected position at any point in my life. I volunteered on the city Budget Committee because I was curious about how our money was spent. Now through a series of unexpected events and grateful for my community's willingness to let me try, I am here...

What you find here are my personal perspectives.

Before getting elected, I enjoyed complete freedom writing my thoughts and opinions anywhere and everywhere I chose.

As an elected official, however, my freedom of expression around city business is limited in ways I didn't expect. I respect these limitations now that I understand.

First, anything I post online is subject to public records laws which have a long tail on how long I must keep the information up (sometimes forever, yes, it's true). Second, as a public official, I cannot restrict free speech by the public, even if I don't like what they want to say to or about me. Online, if I allow anyone to comment I must allow everyone to comment, even people who choose to insult, lie, or demean me personally.

So, my journal is divided into several sections:

After Swearing In -- official city communications and records are the professional way to conduct myself
- Social Media Posts I've Made Concerning Government Activities
- Wow, North Bend!
Social Issues: Community Norms vs Personal Freedoms That Have Nothing to Do with City Business I Play a Part in as a Councillor.
Before Getting Elected -- freedom to express without any need for keeping records!