June 30, 2008
I am deeply humbled by the confidence that District 3 residents have shown in electing me to service on Columbia City Council. I will work each and every day to earn that confidence and to make Columbia an even better city than she already is, to enable her to take her rightful place among this nation's greatest cities.
Of course, Great cities are cities of choice, not chance, and are the result of deliberate actions by public officials and engaged citizens who place quality of life issues at center stage;
Great cities understand that economic prosperity flourishes in communities with great livability, in places known for excellence in the basic everyday functions of local government;
Great cities have safe, sparkling, and distinctive neighborhoods that receive first class municipal services.
Great cities care deeply about their young, their old, and their most needy.
Great cities revere the arts and their unique historic structures and provide a tolerant environment that embraces and celebrates the community’s diversity.
Great cities protect their air quality, rivers and streams; provide great parks and beautiful public spaces, and have an unwavering commitment to excellence in their public schools.
Great cities plan strategically and boldly and run efficiently.
Columbia is a good city that dares to be great. As your new City Council member, I pledge to expend all of my energy to making Columbia the great 21st century city she can and should be, and to expect nothing but excellence in every activity that our city undertakes. I will never quit asking the question "what can we do better?"
I look forward to joining my new Council colleagues and my fellow citizens from every part of this city in fashioning a dynamic Columbia, a city rooted in a sense of community and place, which embraces her future with confidence, optimism and pride.
Belinda Gergel