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Libby City Council candidate: Robin Benson

| October 20, 2009 12:00 AM

Editor's Note: The Western News submitted a series of questions to candidates in the Libby City Council election. This candidate is vying for one of three available full-term seats.

Describe yourself.

I have lived in Libby for 30 years and have raised my two children, Bobby and Jessica here. I worked 14 years for Champion and Stimson until they shut down and then went to college full-time for the following two years. I enjoy volunteer work at church and grant writing to help community organizations. I recently acquired $6,000 for playground equipment at Pioneer Park and $10,000 for a local addiction/recovery program.   

What is your present occupation?

I’ve worked in the Clerk and Recorder’s Office for the past five years and my position has nothing to do with city or county decisions.

Why are you running in this election?

I chose to run for city council strictly to serve the people and businesses. I will regard your concerns as significant, as if they were my own. I will listen to you as opposed to talking to you and will be willing to re-examine my thoughts based on your input. If elected, my goal would be to make sound decisions looking out for your best interest, and work diligently to make sure you get the best rates to help keep your cost of living affordable. It is important to me to be available to you.

What should be the city’s top three priorities?

1. Relationships – a strong communication and working relationship between the council and you is key so we can all work together. 

2. Monitoring EPA to be sure Libby’s best interest is kept priority.

3. Forward Thinking/Vision – The willingness to explore possibilities towards creating a strong and sustainable community.

What has been the present council’s biggest achievement?

Approval of the Fred Brown Pavilion to be constructed on city property, and the city’s contribution to Riverfront Park. Although the park is in the beginning stages, I am hopeful the city will continue creating a family friendly park with restrooms and playground equipment to be enjoyed for many years. Grant research would be strongly recommended for this project.

What has been the council’s biggest weakness?

Based on my observations of attending many council meetings, council breakfast on Wednesday mornings, and public comment, it is my opinion the council’s biggest weakness is a combination of poor communication and listening skills, pride, stubbornness and lack of vision. A councilperson needs to have the ability to make decisions in the best interest of the people regardless of personal differences among themselves and others in our community. City residents are also county residents; therefore, a good working relationship between the city and county would only benefit everyone.

What do you love most about Libby?

The people are friendly, giving, caring and generous toward each other. I believe we are a patriotic community and stand strong in protecting and defending our constitutional rights. I also love the natural beauty surrounding Libby that is truly God’s gift. I am blessed to live here.