Why I Decided To Run For The City Council

This afternoon I threw my hat into the ring and I am once again running for the Ward 2 city council seat. I moved to New Hampshire in 1973 and have spent the bulk of that time in Concord. My wife and I have resided in our home in Ward 2 for over 23 years. While I haven’t always agreed with our city councilors and city administration, I have always considered myself fortunate to be living in Concord. Concord is a great city and has provided me with many opportunities. I want to make sure that those who live here now will have the same opportunities 40 years from now that I have had.

There area many reasons why I’m running and there are many issues that have attracted my attention over the years, but the overriding impetus for me has to do with the relationship between the city council, the city’s administration and you and me.

While the issues that come before the city council are important, the process of how those issues are decided determines if we will have confidence in how our elected representatives conduct city business. 

All too often, by the time an issue is brought before the council in a public session, a decision has already been achieved. Even when the public has the opportunity to weigh in, it is a rare occasion when our city councilors don’t follow the recommendations of the city manger or his staff over the testimony of the public. While there will never be 100% agreement on any issue, the process that is used to come to a consensus is just as important (if not more so) than any one issue.

If all the parties feel they are given equal consideration, the party that doesn’t prevail can at least take solace in the fact that the process was fair. However, when individuals and groups feel they are not included in the process, they become disenfranchised and disengaged. They believe they have no voice in determining how issues are decided that effect our city and them personally.

But if you feel your voice was heard and the process was fair, even when you’re on the opposing side you will be more willing to work with those who prevailed to ensure the best possible outcome for our community. The most effective way for our elected officials to earn our trust, is by ensuring that they conduct all their business in a manner that is open and accessible to the public.

If I’m fortunate enough to be elected to represent Ward 2, one of the first issues I will pursue will be to propose a city council rule that would require all city councilors to use a city email account. It would be the only account city councilors could use when conducting city business, corresponding with city officials and exchanging emails with constituents. In addition, unlike private emails that are allowed under current rules, all city emails would be subject to the State’s right to know law.

I believe that what you have to say is important and here’s why:

I will always remember that I was elected to represent you.

I will remember that this is our city.

And I will never forget that it is your money that is being spent.

I hope you will take the time to contact me with any questions, concerns or advice.  My phone number is 224-6086 and you can email me at allan4council@gmail.com