Amid all the buzz surrounding the pending mayoral race in Walden, I think there is one thing that all 2,140 residents of Walden can agree on… both sides of this race are vocal community advocates. On Chattanoogan.com, search results for “Walden” generate almost as many results as “Trump”!
Walden is fortunate to have two candidates for mayor that care deeply about the community. Both candidates are of great intellect, veering apart most notably with their views on raising taxes and what the future holds for about a half-mile of Taft Highway.
As Mayor Trohanis’ son, I can tell you his enthusiasm and commitment to the brightest possible future for Walden is one of his greatest passions, falling only behind my mother (with whom he celebrates 40 years of marriage Sunday), our family and his adoring granddaughters.
Whenever someone suggests “You’re just like your father!” I take it as the highest compliment one can offer. The values he learned at a young age, and thankfully instilled in me, are on display through this campaign now more than ever. He’s upbeat, despite the unfounded swipes at his integrity and fabricated controversy (e.g. “Trafficgate”). He’s loyal to the diverse majority and stands resolute to the subset of rooted, vocal dissenters. He’s prudent, as others take – and spend – money questionably and extravagantly. He’s watchful, accepting zero donations from anyone inclined to promote their own agenda. He’s the only candidate that can wear that badge proudly, and deservedly, in this race. In lieu of taking donations beyond what was absolutely essential, he made a bet on his own ability to deliver a victory through the investment of his own time and hard work, while surrounded by a mass of energized volunteers and supporters.
He's the mayor that puts Walden first, and will continue to do so fervently through his next term.
To those on a fixed income who can’t afford more property tax increases – he hears you and he fights for you. To those young families, drawn to Walden by its charm, yet in need of modern conveniences – he hears you and he fights for you. To all of Walden, and the broader Walden’s Ridge community, my father listens to you first, and then willingly takes on the charge entrusted to him as a leader.
By the time this is published, I’m sure there will be a dozen other articles published on Chattanoogan.com for you to peruse. However, I hope this unique perspective into your mayor – and my father – gives you the hope and confidence in the future of Walden to cast your ballot accordingly on Nov. 3.
William Trohanis II