Let's Keep On the Path that has Already Made Big Improvements
by Bill Graham
In the fall of 1982 I moved to Dayton to serve as pastor of the First Congregational Church. I stayed as pastor for 12 years and during that time I got involved with local projects. In 1983 I found myself chairman of the Courthouse Restoration Committee. Working on this project gave me a real sense of satisfaction and showed me what the community could do when it pulled together. After I retired, I decided to stay in Dayton because I love it here and have many friends.
I found time to work on the restoration of two of our lovely historical homes, one on Tremont and one on Clay Street. I also restored one building on Main Street and partnered on the restoration of another downtown business. Being involved with various organizations over 25 years has allowed me to participate in Dayton's well-deserved revival.
During the past eight years that I have been Mayor, much has been accomplished. I cannot take all the credit for the work we have done as it has been a group effort. My goal has always been to build a team that functions smoothly and cares for the welfare of Dayton. I do not micro-manage as I believe that people are much happier and more productive without someone constantly looking over his or her shoulder. It is better to hire quality people and then allow them to do their jobs without interference.
By so doing, I was able to change the whole atmosphere at City Hall and at the City Council meetings. When I first started on the Council, the public was often treated with rudeness and disrespect, both during meetings and at City Hall, but that has changed. Where before there was conflict and mistrust, now meetings are filled with appreciation, humor and creativity.
Neither I nor any of the City staff claim to be perfect. Once in a while some detail will slip through the cracks, and when it does, my approach is not to lay blame but to figure out the best and quickest way to fix the problem. On rare occasion, the only permanent solution is to replace a staff member and this has happened only twice during my tenure. In both cases, improvement was immediate and lasting.
Today the City is in far better financial condition than it was eight years ago. We no longer have deficits in any of our funds. Several pieces of crucial equipment have been purchased for the City crew. Streets and bridges have been improved or replaced. The water system is more than 90% repaired or replaced. Houses are fixed up and Main Street is vibrant again. People are moving to our town because they see it as attractive and interesting. All of these things indicate a progressive and vital community.
I am proud of the changes the people of Dayton have initiated and I am honored to be a part of these achievements. I would appreciate it if you would allow me to serve another term as Mayor in order to continue the progress that Dayton has made.
Copyright (c) 2007, Blue Mountain News