August 24, 2023
As City Officials, we own the responsibility for making decisions that impact people’s daily lives. In this process, it is crucial that our community is governed in a fair, equitable and just manner. Therefore, we Officials must actively practice respectful communication and behavior. In addition, we must stay strong and committed and strive for an even more positive and inclusive community.
The City Committees are intended to address the issues in each of the areas of their commitment to serve. The members study the possibilities, gather information from residents, and prepare recommendations. Their findings are presented to the Board of Alderman and the Board members make decisions regarding the presented suggestions and proposals. The vote by the Board to agree or disagree with the recommendation of a committee is often difficult and requires additional time for consideration as, in each case, the outcome for all citizens must be weighed carefully and thoroughly.
Finding the motivation to push through the challenging situations toward constructive solutions is rarely easy but will, more likely, bring the desired outcome. The belief that reasonable people can work together to find solutions to shared problems is not a new concept, but one that is being destroyed by the incivility and negativity that pervades our society today.
At this point in the life of Clarksville, the collaboration of multiple agencies has afforded the reality of the installation of a Flood Defense System. The success of this project will demonstrate the value of investment in critical infrastructure for long term growth and sustainability. It can provide a movement toward the reality of a revival of healthy economic development in Clarksville.
Clarksville stands at the dawning of a new day and we, the elected officials, must lead the way through that beginning and into the sunrise. We must encourage and engage, we must listen and respond, we must respect all.
Jo Anne Smiley, Mayor