Dever runs to help city progress

OTHELLO — DeWitt (Dan) Dever is running for position seven on the Othello City Council because he wants to help the city progress toward a stronger economic future.

He wants to improve the city by becoming progressive toward growth, economy, housing and more recreation for youth and adults.

Dever said most people in the community know him as Dan, rather than DeWitt. He hopes when people get their voter's ballot, they realize who they are voting for.

He said he is qualified for the position because he farmed for 10 years on Royal Slope and was a teacher at Scootney Springs Elementary for six years. He served on the city parks and recreation committee, and the Othello Community Hospital Board of Commissioners for 18 years. He served as the president and vice president of the Othello Education Association, was president of the Othello Lions Club, served with the Methodist Church as a board chairman and has experience on the board of the Othello Choral/Orchestra Society.

"I feel I would bring a wide range of experience to the council," Dever said.

He has a strong interest in the growth of the city and growth of the economy.

"The city should do everything it can to encourage businesses to locate in Othello," Dever said. "That could possibly include incentives, an incubator type program, some way to spread out startup costs (including water, sewer, curbs, sidewalks and paving) over time instead of paying up front."

He said economic growth for the city means more jobs, population growth and an expansion of the city.

"On the other hand, growth that is not managed can lead to the inability to provide adequate services for the citizens of Othello," Dever said.

He is interested in providing more activities for youth.

"Reopening of the Boys & Girls Club would be a distinct advantage for our youth," he said. "A future undertaking could be building a skate park."