I’m a fan of those who run for local public office.
I see how much work it is and how much those who decide to run care for their communities.
I also see how difficult it can be. For long periods of time, town and village boards are going about the often tedious aspects of governing – I’m pretty sure exactly no one who runs ever looked at roads in their community the way they will once they get on a local board.
From there, the stress levels can ratchet up considerably when there’s a controversial issue and a roomful of people who just tuned in to express their dissatisfaction, most of them friends, neighbors or acquaintances.
Many times, once elected, they can’t get out; no one else will run for their seat and they don’t want to abandon the work that’s crucial for the operation of our small towns and villages.
That’s why I was happy to see so many official write-in candidates step up for the village trustee seat that no one filed for in Sister Bay. This relieves the pressure that some feel to remain on a village or town board even once they know they need a break.
In the Village of Egg Harbor, long-time Village Trustee Angela Lensch filed for re-election. But when two others also filed, she decided to step back. It was too late for her to withdraw her candidacy so she will be on the ballot, but she’s encouraging voters to select one of the other two candidates: Michael Johnson and Scott Rasmussen.
“I have served eight years and it’s been a great experience,” she told me via email, agreeing it would be good to share the news with the public. “I think it’s also good to welcome new people to the board to keep it fresh.”
She has plans to dedicate more time to her artistic career and business, Angela Lensch Gallery, if she’s not re-elected.
“My biggest takeaway is that our Village Board and staff really care and work very hard to make our community the best it can be in a smart, sustainable and economical way,” she said. “It is not easy, as there are always many factors to weigh and limitations to work within.”
“Though it has been great to learn and be a part of my community at that level,” she continued, “I do feel it is time for a break.”
Thanks, Angela – and all else who decide to serve our communities in this way.
