Beyond the rhetoric it's the people that matter

Sometimes the things that really count get lost in a political campaign.

As my opponent and I have gone toe to toe at debates, on television and out in the community, the one-liners and positioning can blur what's important---keeping our city safe and economically healthy for our citizens.

I'm committed to these basic principles and to being honest about where I stand and where we're headed. Managed carefully and with vision, we can continue to move our city forward. But everything we do needs to focus on our city, our citizens, and your prosperity.

I have come to believe that my opponent, however, has different priorities, and they are more about him than the people a mayor must serve.

Put simply, Tim Leavitt has not and is not being straight with you.

He says running government efficiently is a matter of prioritization. And yet when asked how the city should pay for services he suggests raising property taxes.

He says he is against bridge tolls but in the same breath says he will support tolls if the bridge project depends on them.

If my opponent had his way, we would not have a much needed fire station in east Vancouver -- nor would we be able to keep funding police and fire. All because he is incapable of taking a stand for you.

In easier financial times, the up and down, empty campaign rhetoric coming from a mayoral candidate might not be so deadly. But in these times, when our city's future and your families' and businesses' futures are in such a tough spot, none of us can afford to be misled or to be less than your mayor's number one priority.

I want you to know I am seeking a final term as your mayor precisely because of the unprecedented times we find ourselves in. It will take strong leadership to get us through the next four years, and I am committed to making the decisions necessary to do so. I can assure you my motivation will be the best interests of America's Vancouver.

Thank you for your ongoing support. I look forward to Election Night. There is much work to do on behalf of our city and I will be there for you.

Royce

Comments

[Holly Forrest]

The word for what Leavitt is doing is mendacity. My mother always said there's no such thing as a free lunch, and my dad taught me that you get what you pay for. Leavitt clearly doesn't believe such things.

My biggest concern about you, Mayor Pollard, is that you don't plan to run for another term after this. Your leadership has transformed our city. You'll leave very big shoes to fill!

[Sue Pauley]

Mayor Pollard, so very well said. Your leadership is sorely needed for as long as we can have you in this position. I cannot imagine changing mayors at this time, especially with all the enormous issues on the table. We are looking at building a 100 year bridge and any one who says it can be done without tolls is blind or stupid or both. It is not just about us and Portland: it is about moving goods and services and commuters up and down the entire West Coast. It is about providing a robust economic revitalization to the area. Small minds think small thoughts. I enjoy your big picture perspective and lively attitude toward Vancouver and SW Washington. I send you my best wishes for a successful run and I thank you for your sincerity and stamina.