Christine Labelle, Town of Paradise Valley Town Council member
Photo provided by Christine Labelle
By Christine Labelle | Member, Paradise Valley Town Council
OPINION – Recently, a public communication praised the Town Council for accomplishments over the past year. While I agree with most of the positive aspects of that message, it also included negative commentary about some of our colleagues.
While we all have our own methods and perspectives, this is not an approach I support. I have been subjected to negative campaigning tactics in the past and have made it my practice to neither use nor condone such methods, both in campaigning and while performing my duties as a member of the town council.
I have made this clear to my fellow council members and have asked not to be included in any correspondence that might be used to berate or denigrate others. Even if my name is mentioned in a positive way, my inclusion in this type of communication goes against my wishes.
As a council, we are tasked with making decisions collectively, and open and honest dialogue is a necessary component of effective governance. Our successes can be celebrated without diminishing others. Personal attacks are counterproductive and risk distracting from the meaningful progress we are making as a body.
I cannot control how others choose to use my name, but I can reaffirm my commitment to my own compass, which does not support such measures. It is my sincerest wish that we can all work together in the new year for the betterment of my hometown, Paradise Valley.
I’ve chosen not to seek reelection, but I’d like to thank you all for the chance to serve these past three years. It has been a true honor.
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