To the editor:

Arlene Buetow has my vote for city council.

As our city struggles with the economic fallout from the recession, and works to further smooth the operation of a council-manager form of government, a person who is experienced in charting a steady course is a valuable asset. For years, Arlene has successfully served on the Utility Advisory Committee, balancing a variety of disparate views to achieve a consensus plan that could be presented to the council. She has been able to remain calm and clear amid outbursts of animosity, rising above the tumult to find common ground.

Every year, our city asks us for more and more money in the form of bonds, taxes and fees. There are questions about whether the city is currently taking care of its bureaucracy, consultants and favorite contractors instead of putting island residents first. Arlene has shown that she will look out for all of us by representing the average citizen, and by enabling those at city hall to serve everyone equally.

Please join me in voting for Arlene Beutow for city council.

DEE DUMONT

Grow Avenue