By Noah Dawson
I've spent the past few weeks collecting petition signatures to get 6 questions facing our city on the ballot in May. During this time, I've met many voters around the city, and they have a lot to say about our local politics. Here's some of what I learned speaking to Amarillo voters.
Our council, mayor, and city manager have been dismissive of people like me. It's been said that the critics of the council are just a vocal minority.
The illusion that we are a small group is shattered by the sheer volume of support we've gotten for the petitions. The voters I've spoken to aren't just upset about what's been going on at city hall, they're excited that there are people like me who've been stepping up. Like I've said before, the apathy that put our current council into place is turning into outrage.
Despite how unpopular red light cameras are, our council is more than eager to install more. Despite outcry against parking meters, the plan to install them is still continuing. Despite the outcry against criminalization of homelessness, our council seems ambivalent about the issue. In fact, with these and other issues, our council has indeed changed the tone. While previous councils often worked against the people's interests, this council has doubled down, surrounding themselves in controversy at every turn.
The people are growing restless. Even people who've said they voted for members of the current council say they won't support their re-election. Many who've signed the petitions eagerly asked if we had another one to recall the council. Many voiced their opposition to the ballpark and various other failings of the council.
Even people from out of town are aware of our council's reputation. I met one couple who weren't able to sign the petitions since they live in Pampa. A friend of mine helping collect signatures jokingly asked the couple if they'd be willing to trade mayors. Their response? “Oh h*** no!”
Amarillo is tired of the status quo. We're tired of being ignored. We're tired of being embarrassed by our city leaders. When spring comes, I have a feeling more than just the seasons will change.
Photo by Sauer Campaign