By Bill Effinger

North Kitsap Herald, guest columnist

Too often, the general public loses sight of the fact that every elected official and the administration they direct are working for all of us. The hierarchical structure is that of a pyramid, with the general public on top and everyone else below, ranked in order of their positions within that pyramid.

Last week’s special meeting of the Poulsbo City Council concerning the mayor’s requested salary increase and the possible hiring of a city manager is a case in point. It’s abundantly clear that the role of the mayor has morphed into something much larger than when the city was smaller.

Managing the city and its employees requires skills way beyond what an elected person should be expected to supervise and direct. Poulsbo has been fortunate to have an elected mayor who does have those skills, but replicating those skills will be highly unlikely in the future.

Our democratic process does not allow qualifiers or educational tests for a candidate running for any office. That being said, engaging a city administrator as an alternative proposed by the council committee April 25 seems like a logical solution for the future, and maybe sooner, than when Mayor Becky Erickson’s term ends in 2020.

While we’re on the subject, a recent poll released by the Harvard Kennedy School’s Institute of Politics indicated that 37 percent of Americans below the age of 30 say they definitely plan to vote in November — a significant jump from the 23 percent who said the same in 2014, and 31 percent in 2010. Maybe the young will show us the way to regain our national and worldwide respect.

Part two of Council member Abby Garland’s interview:

BE: What are some of the most important things you have learned about city government since your induction?

AG: Broadly, I have learned that things can take a while to get done, which is not necessarily a bad thing. More specifically, I believe that Poulsbo is in good hands with dedicated and concerned leadership and employees.

BE: Since being sworn in, have you received background information on applicable city ordinances and state laws pertaining to your position as a council person?

AG: Yes

BE: Did you consider the information to be helpful to you and your position?

AG: The city clerk, fellow council members, and mayor have all been welcoming and helpful in answering questions and orienting me to my new role. City ordinances and state laws are critical pieces to making decisions as a council member and are referenced frequently.

BE: How much of an eight-hour weekday is normally directed to city business and how many days during a month are those hours applicable to?

AG: It would be easier to give an average number of hours per week. Including various emails/communication, committee meetings, teleconferences, council meeting reading and prep, council meetings and public events, etc., this week was at 12-15 hours. This, of course, changes week to week — some more, some a little less.

BE: You are a mother of three. What has the impact of your position been on your family life?

AG: There is no question that this position and its commitments creates added challenges in terms of family schedules and childcare concerns, however, I also firmly believe that it’s a positive change for our family. I want my children to see their mom as an active, involved member of the community. I appreciate the opportunity this position provides for me to focus my energy and skills outside of the home and my important role as “Mom.” I am also grateful for a supportive husband.

BE: What suggestions do you have for anyone considering seeking a role in government, whether elected or volunteer?

AG: Don’t hesitate to get involved! I have found those that work in Poulsbo city government to be accessible and responsive. If you want to get involved but have questions, or don’t know how, feel free to reach out. My email is agarland@cityofpoulsbo.com

Bill Effinger can be reached at bill@billeffin ger.net and @WREPro on Twitter.