Published: Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Herald endorsement / Arlington mayor
Tolbert has right skill set
Arlington is known for volunteerism, with countless citizens stepping forward almost routinely to help out where they're needed. Despite hard fiscal times at city hall -- a reality facing all local governments -- six candidates encapsulated that can-do spirit by filing last spring to replace two-term Mayor Margaret Larson, who isn't running for re-election.
The two who advanced from the primary, Arlington Fly-In director Barb Tolbert and current City Council member Steve Baker, are both passionate and capable candidates who understand the challenges facing the city of about 18,000.
In a close call, our endorsement goes to Tolbert, whose inclusive, collaborative leadership style not only fits in Arlington, but will be needed to generate the best ideas for dealing with continuing budget challenges.
Tolbert's varied business background is also a point in her favor. She has worked in finance, sales, marketing and human resources over her career, experience that has helped her oversee a paid and volunteer staff of more than 500 and a budget of some $500,000 at the annual Arlington Fly-In. She also has gained insights into local government and private-sector issues as a member of the city's economic development committee.
She would bring a long-range vision to city hall. "Everything has changed," because of the flat revenue picture, she said, and "a paradigm shift is needed."
Developing long-range plans that ensure basic needs are met, including infrastructure, and that effective incentives are in place for business investment will require lots of listening, she says, but also a willingness to make tough decisions. "You have to be sure others understand why you did what you did," she said.
She and Baker agree on the need to enhance already strong volunteer-based programs, but she has more experience rallying that kind of effort.
Baker, a long-time contractor, 10-year council veteran and current mayor pro-tem, clearly understands the city's internal operations and brings expertise on development issues. He said he would encourage city staff, but would hold them accountable for results.
He says that as mayor, he'd be in a better position to push an idea that has yet to gain traction on the council: offering incentives for city employees to come up with ideas to save money.
Arlington voters are fortunate to have two well-qualified candidates on the ballot. In our view, Tolbert's varied skill set and long-term vision make her the stronger choice.
The two who advanced from the primary, Arlington Fly-In director Barb Tolbert and current City Council member Steve Baker, are both passionate and capable candidates who understand the challenges facing the city of about 18,000.
In a close call, our endorsement goes to Tolbert, whose inclusive, collaborative leadership style not only fits in Arlington, but will be needed to generate the best ideas for dealing with continuing budget challenges.
Tolbert's varied business background is also a point in her favor. She has worked in finance, sales, marketing and human resources over her career, experience that has helped her oversee a paid and volunteer staff of more than 500 and a budget of some $500,000 at the annual Arlington Fly-In. She also has gained insights into local government and private-sector issues as a member of the city's economic development committee.
She would bring a long-range vision to city hall. "Everything has changed," because of the flat revenue picture, she said, and "a paradigm shift is needed."
Developing long-range plans that ensure basic needs are met, including infrastructure, and that effective incentives are in place for business investment will require lots of listening, she says, but also a willingness to make tough decisions. "You have to be sure others understand why you did what you did," she said.
She and Baker agree on the need to enhance already strong volunteer-based programs, but she has more experience rallying that kind of effort.
Baker, a long-time contractor, 10-year council veteran and current mayor pro-tem, clearly understands the city's internal operations and brings expertise on development issues. He said he would encourage city staff, but would hold them accountable for results.
He says that as mayor, he'd be in a better position to push an idea that has yet to gain traction on the council: offering incentives for city employees to come up with ideas to save money.
Arlington voters are fortunate to have two well-qualified candidates on the ballot. In our view, Tolbert's varied skill set and long-term vision make her the stronger choice.
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