Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Editorial: For Roanoke council, Lea, Price and Rosen
The Democratic slate offers more diverse and independent voices than the challengers.
From the RoundTable blog
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Independent candidates in the Roanoke City Council race deserve thanks for challenging the Democratic candidates, who would have coasted to victory without opposition otherwise. The independents invigorated the campaign by forcing the party's slate to stand up to scrutiny. Unfortunately, the independents didn't fare too well.
Voters should endorse the Democratic ticket: Incumbent Sherman Lea merits another term, and businessman Court Rosen and educator Anita Price should join him.
We haven't always agreed with Lea but are heartened he has snipped the ties that bound him to Councilman Brian Wishneff, and he has sought to make amends with his colleagues.
Lea is a strong supporter of the schools, has backed downtown improvements and was the leading force in tackling the city's domestic violence problems. Lea stays in touch with constituents, understands their concerns and attempts to address them.
Price comes across as a one-issue candidate. Her focus on education makes her sound more like a school board candidate than council candidate. But her platform is broader. She understands that attracting and retaining business is of prime concern, and she touts her achievements as a "collaborator" -- a role sorely needed on council.
Rosen, as a member of the sought-after demographic of young professional, would bring to council a voice now lacking. Rosen has impressed many with the considered thought he has given issues. He gained the financial backing and endorsement of the Business Leadership Fund. Some voters will view that as a plus; others will harbor reservations, worrying that Rosen might not offer a challenging, independent voice on council. That concern should be monitored, but it isn't sufficient to disqualify Rosen. His assets far exceed those of any challenger.
Brian Wishneff, the other incumbent in the race, is contrary for contrary's sake. His dissent has turned unreasonable and disruptive on far too many occasions.
Valerie Garner, too, offers dissent, which would be a good thing if only she had learned to see beyond her own back yard of Countryside Golf Course.
It is admirable that Dale Anthony Edmonston wishes to work for the public's good. However, his understanding of city government is unimpressive.
Of the six, Lea, Price and Rosen merit voter approval.
