Letter to the Editor: 'Eight Years of Service is Probably Enough' for LFP's Fiene

To the Editor:

I have been asked why, after 2 terms (8 years) on the Lake Forest Park City Council, I am not running for a third term.

As with most decisions, the reasons are complex and varied. When I first ran for city council, it was for a seat vacated by Roger Olstad who had stated that in a small city, 8 years of service is probably enough. I thought that this statement might be sage advice. I also feel that in volunteering for service one should have an exit plan at the outset. 

Looking back, I have had the opportunity to work with many excellent elected individuals as well as with many gifted city and regional staff; I shall miss those associations. I feel very positive about my legislative accomplishments in serving both the citizens of Lake Forest Park and about my representation of LFP's interests to regional forums.

Today, I more fully understand Roger's comment. In a smaller city, such as Lake Forest Park, serving for 8 years allows one enough time to "learn the job" and to become effective in understanding and representing citizens’ interests and concerns in the development of legislation, and in problem solving. After 8 years, it is time to step aside to allow new thoughts, energy and perspective to enter the process of government. This also seems best for all of our citizens. Institutions and organizations become stale when there is little change within their ranks.

Rather than being concerned that 3 two-term council members are leaving the LFP Council this year, our citizens should be excited about the 3 very capable and energetic and candidates, John Resha, Mark Phillips and Hilda Thompson who have come forward to run for the new council. Each of these candidates is knowledgable about the issues of Lake Forest Park, has a solid background in volunteerism, and will bring new energy and perspective to the governance of LFP.

It is very rewarding to see candidates of this caliber volunteer to fill this responsibility of governance.

Don Fiene
Lake Forest Park City Council