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My Plans for 2012
August 24, 2011
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I write you regarding my decision not to seek reelection as a member of
Columbia City Council upon the completion of my term ending June 30,
2012.
In my three years as a member of Council, I have worked to make
Columbia a safe, beautiful and vibrant place to live. We have certainly
faced our challenges over the last several years, but I feel good about
where our City is and where we are heading in the future.
As many of you are aware, my family situation has changed significantly
since I assumed my duties on Council on July 1, 2008. My husband,
Richard, was nominated by President Obama as a United States District
Judge in December 2009, confirmed by the United States Senate in August
2010, and assumed duties immediately after confirmation at the Federal
Courthouse in Charleston. We have lived a commuter marriage over the
last year, with Richard spending the work week in Charleston and me
performing my Council responsibilities in Columbia. After 32 years of
marriage, neither of us have been comfortable with this travel and
living arrangement.
To my constituents in District 3, I have been deeply honored to
represent you on Council. Your civic engagement, love of neighborhood
and passion for excellence have been a source of daily inspiration for
me. Over the past three years I have worked with you to improve public
safety in our neighborhoods and commercial districts, strengthen our
City's financial condition and streamline its administration, promote
neighborhood character and distinctiveness, and enhance quality of life
initiatives with advocacy for the arts, programs for our homeless, a
sustainable public transit system, and a host of park renovations and
improvements.
In the 11 months remaining in my term, I will continue my efforts to
strengthen all facets of life in Columbia. I will remain a full-time
City Councilwoman until June 30, 2012, and will welcome your input on
issues we must address as we position our City for the changes and
opportunities of the future.
Thank you for your support and know that I look forward to seeing you soon.
Belinda Gergel
Columbia City Council, District 3 Representative