Wanted: Public Servants Dedicated To Improving The Lives Of All New Orleanians
With the announcement that at least one city council member (District A Councilwoman Shelley Midura) has officially chosen not to seek re-election in May and rumors and reports that there might be others on the current council that will bow out gracefully or not so gracefully next spring. We’re are also disheartened to hear that District C Councilman James Carter, too, might be considering resignation, perhaps even before his term ends—a move that would leave a void that would likely be filled through appointment and that would give someone who was not elected by the people an incumbent advantage if he or she chose to run for the post next year.
With all of this, it seems now is a good time to remind all citizens that the decision to run for public office is a sober one that must be made by individuals with the ability to put the best interest of this city’s residents over their own.
At The Tribune, we respect Midura’s decision and appreciate the fact that she has decided to not run again in lieu of half-heartedly serving New Orleanians.
Still, especially troubling are the some of the reasons cited for the decision not to run again—too many challenges, too many hours, not enough pay. New Orleans City Council members earn $42,000 a year for their service. We certainly would not disagree that a hard working public servant in this position deserves a raise. What we do take issue with is the idea the title itself, the amount of work or the challenges faced should command more money. And we take issue with anyone who would focus on pay more than people because surely a political candidate knows and accepts that challenges, hard work and a few obstacles are synonymous with leadership. We would like to believe they chose to run anyway because they truly felt a calling to make a difference.
As for the salary, consider that according to U.S. Census records, the per capita income in New Orleans in 2007 was just below $22,800—about $3400 less than the U.S. per capita income. So if the paycheck that comes with the job is the biggest concern for an individual, then public leadership will probably not suit him or her; and that’s fine. But before anyone declares that $42,000 is not enough, take a look around at your fellow New Orleanians—the hardworking citizens fortunate enough to have a job in this tough economy—and think about what they may be earning.
We implore those considering a run for office next May to make certain that they are ready for the challenges, will be committed to making a difference and dedicated to the people of this city despite the long hours and low pay. As always, that’s what we think, but we want to know what cha say? What qualities do you expect from or would like to see in a political candidate or our elected officials?
