thanks to Lakewood

Thomas J. George · Post by **Thomas J. George** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 6:53 am

Observers,

Thank you for your support that allows me to participate in the run off for re-election as your mayor.

This fall we have a very clear choice between a progressive democrat and a very conservative opponent.

I have a strong progressive record on issues like sustainability, social justice and support for our elderly and disabled and intend to put that record front and center.

The tired old right wing rhetoric has worn thin in Washington and in Lakewood.

The problems facing inner ring suburbs such as Lakewood are well documented. National issues such as a slumping housing market, foreclosures and unemployment plague Lakewood and other cities.

We have been aggressive in addressing these issues and our actions have drawn attention from others and serve as a model for other communities.

Our community has witnessed three high profile crime incidents over this summer (the FBI agent, McDonald's and Muni Lot). My job as mayor is to keep the safety and lead in a responsible way. Meetings that inflame hatred are not responsible and are not constructive. Again, I will not condone or participate in such meetings.

I am fully aware there is an anti-incumbency mood in the country. Ed acknowledged this fact at the Sun Post interview several weeks ago.

Many people are lashing out at cultural and economic changes in America and are targeting the most accessible officials, those of us on the local level.

When I took office, Lakewood had practically no new construction. The infrastructure was neglected. The financial decline that began in 2002 (when Ed and I were BOTH on Council) was worsening.

We have turned the corner in each of these issues. WE are seeing more new construction than we've seen in decades. New streets, sewers and water lines are being completed. Moody's most recent rating gave Lakewood a "stable" outlook.

I work over 60 hours per week as your mayor during a "normal"
week.

I will contact Ed about his debate offer and find time to engage him.

I've got a strong record and am proud to share it.

Proud to be Your Mayor,

Mayor Tom George

Justine Cooper · Post by **Justine Cooper** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 8:49 am

Good post Mayor!! I think you have done an outstanding job in many areas and have a tough road considering the decline of Cleveland next door. I hope you turn attention toward more safety and cleaner streets now that you have helped bring beautiful buildings and development to Lakewood!

Thank you for working such long hours to serve the city! Good luck!

Adam Jusko · Post by **Adam Jusko** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 10:12 am

This fall we have a very clear choice between a progressive democrat and a very conservative opponent.

Which is which? I thought Demro was out...

Stephen Eisel · Post by **Stephen Eisel** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 10:24 am

John F Kennedy was a conservative democrat

Gary Rice · Post by **Gary Rice** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 11:38 am

Now, THIS is the Tom George I know and love so well.

Bravo!

Frankly, Lakewood's fortunate to have both you and Ed supporting our city. I hope you will both consider that this has been already one of the most interesting, exhausting and citizen-involved elections that we've seen.

Ed's campaign did an absolutely spectacular job with getting his voters out.

Wow!

He seems to have gotten more primary voters than you and Ryan COMBINED!

As busy as you have been, and I KNOW that you've spent many 60 hour weeks for our city, you now must take your message out more to the people.

The 'Deck, as well as other Lakewood sites, is a great place to do it.

Ed has done an exemplary job interacting with citizens on the 'net. I disagree with a number of his arguments, but I cannot fault his open and courteous manner in dealing with the public.

And I also appreciate your own. You are an extraordinarily decent and committed man, in my opinion. I am proud to support you.

You're my old friend, and my candidate, Tom. I believe that I know you well, and I know what you have done, and what you plan to do.

Many others however, obviously, do not.

Let them know more about you directly.

Rise and engage.

Now.

Bryan Schwegler · Post by **Bryan Schwegler** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 12:11 pm

Mayor George,
While I was a Demro support and am now a FitzGerald supporter, I want to congratulate you on your campaign and your finish in the primary. I have no doubt that you intend the best for Lakewood and have worked hard to achieve your vision. I wish you the best of luck in the general election.

The one piece of advice I would have for you is that safety issues are a concern of alot of people in Lakewood. When citizen's gather to discuss the issues (either in safety meetings or block watch organizing meetings), it's because they're concerned, I don't think it's their intent to "inflame hatred". Your lack of presence spoke volumes to alot of people and I think in the end hurt your campaign and helped Fitzgerald.

Just food for thought.

Justine Cooper · Post by **Justine Cooper** » Wed Oct 03, 2007 6:19 pm

Good post Bryan and I agree with much but there were some safety meetings held where people left more scared, or scared when they weren't before. Those meetings should not have been held that way, putting fear into people just for votes. Just my food for thought!