Well, here we are again, huh? I cringe every time I think back to last year’s “us vs. them” fiasco. It was supposed to be non-partisan, and perhaps it was. But on the other hand, it was worse. It was those who recognized the need for change and wanted to do something about it — up against city insiders who refused to admit that anything was wrong with the system. Well, when there’s something worth fighting for, the fight will go on until there’s change.

The city founders and benefactors who created the system in place built a model that keeps the leadership too far away from the people. Those who have been shouting “We need checks and balances” are frankly right on the money. Accountability is surely not something Federal Way can boast of. Too many major decisions have been made by a tiny minority claiming that they are acting for “the benefit of the people.”

I have just read that city council member Jim Ferrell is stepping up to the plate. He is willing to step outside the constraints of the old system and be a voice for change. Some of you may recall that Jim has been saying for years that the city needs an advocate for the people. Well, I think the time is finally here. An elected mayor — a strong mayor — is just what the doctor ordered. Last year’s vote was obscured by both bickering and apathy. It won’t be easy to change either. But I think that something good was set in motion a year ago. The initiative is back on the ballot for November, and I hope you voters will see through the smoke screen this time and vote for change. I’m going to listen closely to what Jim Ferrell has to say. I hope you will too.

Dave McKenzie, Federal Way