Well, here we go again.
Those are the immortal words former President Ronald Reagan uttered when he faced opposition from Congress or criticism from the media. I feel the phrase is appropriate here because after a long, quiet spell between Mayor James Valley and the Helena-West Helena City Council, they’ve apparently returned to their respective corners and appear to be ready to start sparring again.
It seems that the council’s rejection of the appointment of the late Alderman Eugene “Red” Johnson’s daughter to fill her father’s vacated seat drew the ire of some in the community, particularly those in Mayor Valley’s camp. Instead the council opted to install John Washington, who was defeated by Mr. Johnson in the November general election, to complete the unexpired term.
After reading some interesting comments on the Internet, it appears there is quite a bit of over reaction to the council’s action. One writer stated the council’s move “stomps on the grave and dumps on the memory of Alderman Eugene “Red” Johnson” by rejecting his daughter. My goodness, that’s more than theatrical, it’s down right melodramatic.
It should be noted that a seat on the city council, or any other political position, is not a birthright.  I have no doubt that Ms. (Millicent) Johnson is as intelligent as her father. However, the fact that she has a Master’s Degree and is an educator makes her no more qualified than any other who holds political office. Most city council members do not have Master’s Degrees and govern quite well.
Of course, race was drawn into the debate but in recent wranglings, that has become more of a crutch or cry wolf than a legitimate political foul.
Washington’s appointment passed by a narrow 5-4 margin. He was sworn in Wednesday morning.
Unfortunately, Helena-West Helena has had the sad responsibility of replacing two deceased alderman in less than two years. It is a true shame that the replacement process turns into a political feud. With little fanfare, Mayor Valley appointed “his” candidate, Joseph Dean, to fill Bobby Martin’s post. It appears the council’s move is to “one-up” the mayor.
This has obviously become a fight to control the council.
Who’s right?
My answer might surprise you. In this case, neither side is right.
Ms. Johnson does not deserve the seat, simply because she is the daughter of the late elected official.  However, she should have been considered like any other potential successor. Likewise, appointing the man who Johnson defeated in the election, at least on the surface, appears to be a slap in the face of the voters of Mr. Johnson’s ward.
There are at least solutions. Perhaps in the best interest of the city, a special election should be held. In a true democracy, the voters have a right to be represented by someone they selected and not someone appointed at the discretion of the mayor or the city council.
That may not be an option. The constitution may prohibit it. It also is the most expensive choice. However, this is an unusual circumstance.  Unlike Mr. Martin, who died in the middle of his term, Mr. Johnson’s full term does not begin until Jan. 1. Two years is a long time for an appointee to serve.
At the very least, the mayor and council should have composed a short list of qualified candidates.  The first qualification, without saying, should be, willing to serve.  The short list should have been interviewed and the mayor and council should have come to a consensus.
Oh well. What do I know? I am just a voter. However, this is yet another Helena-West Helena political incident that will leave a bad taste in the mouth of voters.