It’s fair to say that most people on this planet do not live under democracy. In many countries, change in political leadership only comes with assassination, revolution or violent coup. We are indeed fortunate to live in a country where every man and woman has a right to vote in or out their political leaders. Although relatively few actually use that right, we are all bound by the votes of that active minority. That’s how democracy works. So, where am I going with this? Well, we’re about to see a change of power in the city of Kimball. On Jan. 6 a new mayor and new council (with only two returning members) will be sworn in. A lot will change – that’s the nature of politics. Different leaders have different styles. It will take awhile for the new mayor and council to find an effective way of conducting the city’s business. Meanwhile, since the election in November, rumors are flying through our little community. I won’t go into any of them, because it’s not our business to print rumors and gossip. However, these rumors can only serve to undermine the new mayor and the new city council at a time when they most need our support and patience. I urge everyone in Kimball to attend the Jan. 6 city council meeting, and to meet your new leaders. In fact, come back for the next meeting on the 20th too. For democracy to be truly effective and representative, every citizen must take part. Karla Davis, Mickey Fischer, Duane Orbeck, Wayne Mackereth and Andy Maus are your representatives in local government. Make your voice known to them, come to city council meetings to see what they’re doing, and support them as they face some difficult decisions for you and the future of Kimball. Kimball City Council meetings are open to the public, as are township meetings. We post meeting and contact information on our Community Calendar each week. We welcome letters to the editor on any topic near and dear to your heart, whether it’s political or not. Your letter must be signed and must include your address and phone number. We won’t publish that information, but we may need to verify who wrote the letter before we print it.
