Council stint rewarding, but time to move on

On Nov. 4, Clayton, along with the state and nation will participate in a general election. Two Clayton city council seats will be on the ballot, including mine. I have decided not to run for re-election.

It has been a great honor to serve our community for the past almost eight years. However, it feels like it is time to step aside. Clayton is full of wonderful people who are qualified to serve on the city council.

I hope we can find a new council member who is more concerned with what is in the best interest of the community than what is in his or her best interest. A council member must act in favor of what is good for the greater community, even if that means acting contrary to the wishes of friends and associates.

Albus Dumbledore said that it takes great courage to stand up to your enemies but even greater courage to stand up to your friends.

There are parts of the job as a city council member that are rewarding and even at times fun. There are also parts that are just real work – like long agenda packets and dealing with issues that are necessary but not necessarily interesting.

If anyone is interested in running for Clayton city council the nomination period starts on July 14 and runs through Aug. 8. Candidate packets can be picked up in person at City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton starting on July 14. For more information, call the city clerk, Janet Brown, (925) 673-7300.

Feel free to contact me with questions and comments by email at hstratford@ci.clayton.ca.us.