Letter to the Editor: Supporting Dane Slater for Mayor

This letter was sent to Patch by Cathy Fucinari.

Last fall, I spoke to city council about my experience living in Troy, and how my husband and I realized the bargain it was to live in Troy.  We were happy to pay our taxes for the wealth of services and benefits we received.  We raised our family, working together with a diverse population, creating opportunities for all of our children.  I talked about the synergy at work in this community that had greater benefit than any of us could have generated alone.  This synergy is what made Troy the best place to live in this region.

I talked about how the atmosphere changed.  It turned divisive, mistrustful, allowed bigotry to flourish, and encouraged fearing of “others” of a different background or lifestyle.

I asked council to be mindful of the decisions they would make moving forward and seeking a new mayor.  We would need to look for candidates who represented more than ideology; people not so entrenched in ideology that they wouldn’t see the people standing before them.  The candidates would need to be able to listen to other points of view, be willing to represent all people in the community, and not just those who agreed with their personal agendas.  We needed someone willing to work with the city staff and volunteers we had, not drive people out, to replace them with cronies.  We need character, integrity, and honesty.  Council found those characteristics in Mayor Slater, and he has indeed returned responsible government to Troy.

Nearly four years ago, I supported Dane Slater in his candidacy for city council.  I recognized his impeccable character.  His approach to the city’s business and this council has reflected the traits I asked you to consider critical.  He has returned civility to this chamber, and responsibility to our government.  During the last four years he has earned the trust I placed in him.

Now, I urge our citizens to make that same mindful choice.  Let’s return this community to the jewel it once was, with the respect of the citizens, the region and the nation returned to its former levels.  Mayor Slater has proven himself to be a good man, capable of providing the leadership we need.  As a community, we need to Keep Mayor Slater!

Letters will be edited for grammar, style, brevity and obvious factual accuracy. Please keep submissions about 300 words or less. Guest columns, for longer pieces that would be featured separately, are also welcome. Submit letters or questions to local editor Tim Rath (tim.rath@patch.com).