I have no axe to grind with Mayor Ron Littlefield. He was someone who graciously spent time with me in Chattanooga talking about the need for education reform over a decade ago. I personally found him a wealth of knowledge. Whether he remains mayor of Chattanooga or is removed is a decision of the voters. Although I suspect the courts will be used as a buffer either to keep him in office or remove him, which is disappointing either way. I am not certain who is advising him, but his words in response to court action were ill advised.

I also know Mark West. I have always found him engaging and concerned with others, particularly for those with little or no voice. For someone with wealth he certainly spends much time with ordinary or less fortunate people. I have watched how his character is beginning to be targeted. Question his actions. Question his motives. But do not question his character. Mark West is a high-quality, first-rate individual. It does not mean I agree with his politics every time or even on this issue.

Under the right circumstances I think Mr. Littlefield and Mr. West could have been friends. They could have worked together on key issues that could have made a difference in the lives of citizens. Now we much watch as this is played out in the media and opinion sections of newspapers. Mr. Littlefield will be portrayed as a weak, ineffective mayor lashing out at critics and using the courts to thwart the will of voters. Mr. West will be portrayed as a mean spirited man who uses his wealth to target politicians for some untold political ambition. That is not true about either man.

Southeast Tennessee is on the rise. We have Volkswagen, Wacker and Whirlpool spending major dollars in our community and neighboring communities. I believe more companies will look to expand in our area because of our values, quality of life, cost of living, low taxes and commitment to market-oriented principles. These companies, as well as our existing companies face a myriad of global issues in a rapidly changing, complex and growing international business marketplace. Elected leaders must exercise good public policy based upon fact, an understanding of sound economic principles and the core principles of our free enterprise system – economic freedom, limited government, personal responsibility, individual initiative, respect for private property and the rule of law.

We need to be civil to one another—even in disagreement.

We need to be cognizant that in this weak national economy we have been more fortunate than other areas of our country. We have been blessed with excellent leadership in this area, for the most part. The exception may be the school board, but that is another issue. Discuss the issues of the day, which is more than appropriate. Yes, recalling of elected officials is a mechanism that is put in place to make sure elected leaders exercise good public policy. But let’s leave the character assassination of politicians and private citizens to the rumor mills, back alleys and gutters where they belong.

J.C. Bowman
flapolicy@hotmail.com