Qualities of a New Canaan Elected Official

What are the qualities that we are looking for in our elected officials in New Canaan?

They should be:

• Intelligence: Many of the problems face us are complex and there is a need to see and understand the complexities to identify the solution that balances multiple aspects (e.g., long term vs. short term). They need to be willing to put the effort in to understanding the problem in details

• A good listener: Have a willingness to listen to others. Other peoples viewpoints might highlight areas you had not thought about before

• Put the interest of the community first

• A willingness to admit it when they made a mistake

• Acceptance that others may not see things the way they do and that does not make them dumb

• Respectful of others: Let them speak and do not belittle them when you disagree

• Lead through confidence and understanding: Intimidation is not leadership

• A good communicator: When decisions are made acknowledge the tradeoffs and explain the rational for making the decision.

What qualities do you feel they should have?