In response to Tim McClain’s letter from Feb. 20, criticizing my decision to recuse myself from votes relating to the newly created position of mayor of Federal Way, I feel it is important to set the record straight and provide my reasons for this recusal.

As the only declared candidate for mayor, I made the difficult decision to put aside my own personal opinions for this position and allow my council colleagues — none of which are declared candidates for the position — to vote on matters that will guide the new form of government. While there have been very few votes that have required recusal, I believe this is an important step to preserve the actual and perceived integrity of this historic process.

I believe passionately about the future of this city, and I have gone to great lengths to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest on this particular issue. I led the campaign to allow our citizens to elect their mayor, and I do not feel that it would be appropriate to vote on the salary for a position I wish to hold, or the powers of that office. I would hope any other person interested in holding the position would do the same.

I appreciate the interest on where I stand on particular issues by readers of this publication, and rest assured, you will be hearing from me in the coming months through town hall meetings, door-belling your local neighborhood and debates held by The Mirror.

During this time of transition, however, I have chosen to defer to our current mayor, Linda Kochmar, who was chosen by her colleagues to lead in this time of change. The Federal Way City Council meetings are a time to conduct the city’s business and listen to the concerns of you, the public — not a time to campaign from the dais.

Being a leader can invite criticism from all angles, and I welcome a healthy discussion on the issues. I do, however, hold out the hope that contributors to this publication will be fair, forthcoming and honest about their intentions as well, allowing for an open dialogue about what is best for the future of this great city.

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we celebrate a great history and future ahead of us. Let’s keep moving forward with productive discussions, and leave the personal attacks aside. Our future depends on it.

Jim Ferrell, Federal Way City Council