It seems that some people miss the point on what I think mayoral candidate Ginny Dickey wants to accomplish with her series of Town Talk Tuesdays.

This upcoming series is more than a civics lesson. It serves as an educational vehicle as well as an engagement tool for the residents of Fountain Hills. Let’s take a look at the topics: A shared vision for our community, the role of mayor/council, town Manager and staff, how to vote by mail (what to do and when), building strong partnerships in and around our town.

She has emphasized that each session would include an open Q/A to discuss any issue. This is an open invitation for all to attend. I find it refreshing that one of the leaders in our community is having an open forum on issues that matter to our residents compared to the secret meetings regarding lagoons, development fees, and other hidden agendas of some current elected leaders.

The voting issue is significant here in Fountain Hills because we're primarily a permanent early voting town. Many residents are away in August and mailed ballots are not forwarded. It’s important to understand how to vote in a partisan August election, particularly if you like a government that is representative of your values. Voting by mail can seem daunting, however, and Ginny hopes to help make it easier for residents to vote in August.

Concerns about EPCOR point out a perfect example of what is not happening. Ginny will discuss how to build strong relationships in our town. The session, “Why me,” invites all to understand her position on a host of issues. That’s right – discussion of concrete solutions. It’s a discussion that I haven’t seen for a while in this community.

Mayoral candidate Ginny Dickey is providing residents an opportunity to discuss real issues.