Believe in Erie
Doing things the same way and expecting a different outcome is foolish; we must embrace change and new solutions. While our city’s challenges are complex, one pervasive problem is our tendency to “silo thinking”.
Some leaders operate within their area of expertise without considering the wider implications of their decisions. Too many decision-makers default into a decision saying, “well, that’s how its always been done” without considering if that way is the best way. Too often, Erie has supported projects that undermine the long-term vitality of the City and fail to empower the energy and talent that already exists here.
Many leaders are fearful of trying projects without being assured of success. But, we must take some calculated risks and accept some failures in order to revitalize this city. I will seek advice from the Cities Alliance, an organization with the tagline, “cities without slums” with a goal of eradicating poverty. I will review the Kauffman Foundation’s guide to creating a “unique value proposition” for Erie.
Erie Today
For more than 200 years, the people from around the world have moved to Erie to build their lives and raise their families. They have been resourceful and hardworking. But, since the 70’s, Erie has been declining and has fostered a widespread inferiority complex that manifested in telling monikers such as the “mistake on the lake” and “dreary Erie.” However, there is a growing awareness of Erie’s great potential. Thanks to civic leaders around the city and county, we have refocused and compiled solid data at the county, city, downtown and neighborhood level. Using this information, the work of reimagining the city has begun with specific plans to rebuild Erie as safe and thriving 21st century city.
Erie Needs a Different Kind of Leader
Like Perry’s focused leadership that inspired the construction of “a fleet in the wilderness,” Erie needs a visionary mayor who can boldly face daunting odds with energy, intelligence and creativity - a champion who can catalyze the city’s great potential.
Why I’m running to be your mayor
As a civic leader, working with dozens of other concerned stakeholders for over a decade, I have succeeded in promoting small but effective, organic growth and successes in Erie. Alone among the mayoral candidates, for over a decade, I have demonstrated an ability to – collaboratively - create conditions that are fostering the City of Erie’s long overdue Renaissance. Together, we can bring change to Erie and unleash this city’s amazing potential.
