Bartle: I’m running; should you?

The conservatives seem to be chomping at the bit for the November elections and their chance to shift the power of Congress away from the liberals. The upcoming general election is also an important one for Maricopa. Candidates, including a couple locals, will vie to represent Maricopa in the Arizona House and Senate, as well as in the U.S. Congress.

Yet another election, which doesn’t have the fanfare, but will arguably have the greatest impact on our city and its residents, is that of the Maricopa Unified School District governing board. Seats for two of the five members who create policy for our public schools expire this year. And I’m going to be one of several concerned citizens asking to represent you, fellow neighbors and stakeholders, in this all-important role.

I am of the opinion there is no greater impact on the long term success – or failure – of our city than the quality of our schools. In addition to the fundamental benefit of producing future leaders and positive contributors to our city and society, the much talked about economic development would undoubtedly happen in Maricopa if we have great schools. Economic development taking the form of new businesses would (a) create jobs locally, (b) attract new people and other businesses to the city, (c) save us money by expanding the pool of people and businesses that pay our existing tax burden (including the unofficial taxes imposed via high utility rates), and (d) have a positive impact on housing absorption, the amount of recreational and health care opportunities available, etc.

Conversely, poor schools would have the opposite effect. Maricopa would not progress, nor would it grow. Compounding the immeasurable damage done by not providing a great education to our kids, the cost-benefit pendulum for living in Maricopa would swing in the wrong direction, yielding disastrous results for all residents.

I believe I can make a positive contribution to our public schools, and I want to be part of the solution in lieu of someone who merely sits on the sideline and complains. As a result, I’m going to throw my hat in the proverbial ring for a seat on a board that requires much time, provides no pay and garners few accolades to accompany a lot of grief. And you should consider doing the same.

Traditionally, the school board has not been a very hot ticket for potential qualified candidates.  There are countless Maricopans whose talents would be a great asset to our public schools, or other areas of public service. Our democratic system works best when there are more qualified candidates running than positions available.

If you’re tempted to be an active part of Maricopa’s future, click here for more information; the deadline to submit petitions with the necessary number of voter signatures to get on the ballot is Aug. 4, so don’t dillydally.

If you conclude public office isn’t for you at this time, do yourself, your family, your city, your country and your fellow Americans who fought and died to preserve our democracy the favor of educating yourself on the issues and candidates. Then cast ballots in the Aug. 24 primary and Nov. 2 general elections.
 
And, if you are not registered to vote, you can do so at www.ServiceArizona.com. You must register by July 26 to vote in next month’s primary election.