Guest Column by George Marin

 

Much has been written on leadership. Quotes, tips and helpful hints on the subject can be accessed within seconds. But how can one filter multitudes of references, tips and seminars from the world wide web down to the level of local community? One sure way is to look closely at the life of one who leads and claims leadership.

John Maxwell teaches, “Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.” Employing this definition, we can look through history and see that leaders have used their positions to influence people on a variety of fronts. There have been leaders such as Hitler, who used his influence to incite hatred, violence and genocide against humankind. There were also leaders like Mandela and Gandhi, who led from a perspective of peace, forgiveness and harmony. There are ancient writings that suggest that when the right leadership is in place, people rejoice.

Our community is faced with the decision about who will lead us for the next four years. The qualities, abilities and strengths of that leader are crucial. Abraham Lincoln said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” We cannot afford division in Albert Lea. We need a leader who can unite our community like never before: one who possesses vision, drive and the ability to encourage and inspire people. I believe I am that leader.

In the past 18 months, our community has sustained significant losses in terms of health care options, retail, recreation and industry. As our campaign has gone door-to-door, we sense grave concern among many. Approximately 30 percent of our population is senior citizens, 22 percent of the population is disabled and a majority of these are on fixed incomes. Also, over half of our students qualify for free and reduced lunch. Many times, there seems to be a disconnect between local government and the common, hard-working people of Albert Lea.

Some local officials seem to not realize the great difficulties many of our community members are facing, struggling to make ends meet. It’s getting more difficult to raise a family. Many must work two or three jobs just to barely make it. We are not a wealthy community by any means, and we certainly have our challenges, but the good news is that Albert Leans are a strong, resilient people. We’re ones who, when tragedy strikes, respond with great compassion and generosity. In spite of our great challenges, I find people who are hopeful. They still believe in Albert Lea and are willing to fight for our future. So am I.

We see Albert Lea’s true potential. We see the entrepreneurial spirit that built our community still exists. We are given the opportunity to reinvent ourselves in the areas of health care, retail and industry. We can work together to create the most welcoming business and social climate in southern Minnesota. I envision us creating competition in the health care arena like never before; and, we can do this, Albert Lea. I believe in us.

I believe we can begin to grow from within, through community outreach, relationship building and winning back the heart of our business community. When our local business owners know that their city council and staff are behind them 100 percent and that we are committed to their successes, it will breed hope and inspiration in them, and they will tell others. I will lead by example in getting our council out in the community, becoming more visible and accessible to the people. We will no longer wait for people to come to us, but go reach the people, making connections and building relationships.

We will seek to inspire hope and vision for the future with our youth through specific community outreaches. A short time ago, I had the privilege of hanging out with about 15 young men who were playing basketball at Morin Park. That one interaction alone brought so many great responses from these young men. They were so appreciative of positive attention from a community leader. Later, I came across another group of young people. I pulled over and talked with them, and we processed the tragedy that took place recently. They were so open and willing to talk and expressed their appreciation that an adult stopped and took time for them.

We will use three guiding principles: Prioritize — focusing on the right needs at the right times; preserve — appreciating what we already have and building on our successes; and progress — growing together into our future. John Quincy Adams said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” Albert Lea, this is the kind of leadership I offer you as your next mayor. Our best days are still ahead of us, and we can accomplish so much together. I ask for your vote Nov. 6.

George Marin of Albert Lea is running for Albert Lea mayor.