Wilson wants to lead city toward prosperity

OTHELLO — Mayor Pro-tem Tim Wilson is running for Othello mayor to use his leadership skills to continue to steer the city in a positive direction.

“Othello is a great place to live,” he stated. “I live here, work here, my social circles are centered here.”

His employment and political experience makes him a well-rounded candidate for the position, he stated.

“Being on the city council for eight years and its associated committees has given me a good understanding of the political process,” Wilson stated. “My role as mayor pro-tem has broadened that political experience to include leadership of the city council meetings. In addition, my 35 years in managing business is a solid demonstration of my ability to lead.”

He also participates in several community activities including his work as a youth sports coach, men’s ministry leader in his church and Sunday school teacher.

“I see the role of mayor from both the perspective of the actual job responsibility and the perspective of Othello’s citizens and the needs they represent,” Wilson stated.

His goals for the city include keeping Othello a safe place to raise family, beautification and tourism.

“I am a strong supporter of the police department,” he explained. “We will continue to be tough on crime and gang activity.”

He wants to continue to support the volunteers who work to beautify the city.

“I’d like to see that process taken a step further by encouraging a city plan for further beautification of Main Street with lamp posts, trees and possibly a theme for our city,” Wilson stated.

He wants to have a person dedicated to tourism in Othello.

“This new employee would liaison with the chamber of commerce to organize and develop activities such as sports tournaments to bring people into the community,” he stated.

He explained his views on the economy.

“The challenge for the future mayor will be to maintain financial reserves without over taxing our citizens; at the same time promoting the necessary growth needed for the future health of our city,” Wilson stated.

He stated citizens should vote for him because he is committed to the community.

“I have a positive plan for the city’s growth and the safety of its citizens,” he sated. “I have a proven track record in leadership both professionally and in my service on city council which includes acting as mayor pro-tem.”

Wilson explained the city promotes the construction of new homes through ordinances.

“Contractors can depend upon the city’s commitment to maintaining its streets, water and sewer services,” he stated. “The city indirectly supports new home construction by encouraging new business to come to the area. New business brings new people who will need new houses.”

Wilson supports new businesses developing in the city.

“I believe that can be done by remaining a strong member in Economic Development Council and the gas line project, which is a must for a new business to start up in this community,” he stated. “The city’s active participation in these organizations will strengthen our present business and encourage new ones to come. The result will be an increase in employment opportunities for our citizens and increased revenues for our city.”

To promote tourism in the city he would encourage more activities such as baseball tournaments and swim meets. He will continue to support the Coulee Corridor project, Sandhill Crane Festival and events showcasing Othello.

He explained the city improves infrastructure regularly.

“These present improvements and those planned for the future are being accomplished by pursuing grant monies, federal stimulus monies and low interest loans.”

Wilson stated the next project for the city should be updating Main Street.

“Another project that has great value to our community is the purchase of another park with a skate board arena for our children and young people to enjoy,” he stated.