The article in the Tribune recording the 4 council candidate interviews; the questions, answers, and feedback was an interesting read.
From what I can tell, 2 would possibly be an interim - Truitt and Perkinson, as they are not seeking the council seat. Could be a safe choice for the moment, one is the treasurer for a current Mayoral candidate.
The other 2, Benelli and Austin; report did not record an interest by Benelli; Austin indicated he might be running for election. An article earlier in the week stated both would run for election.
I liked the question on immigration and police involvement; both Mayor Hawker and Councilmember Whalen pressed for answers that were more defined - and got them.
One could find favor with either that responded on this topic; Benelli came back later with something specific, showing she is a team player - Austin focused on educating the district to enlighten on the topic; respectful if those views differed.
What must be weighing in this decision, is choosing someone with the city in mind - although assigned to a specific district; afterall, anyone candidate could choose to continue a run for election.
I am confident that Mayor Hawker, Vice Mayor Walters, Councilmember Whalen and remaining Councilmembers will make the right choice. I imagine being on the city council is more than anyone of us could fathom!
