If elected, serve
There is a common theme that runs through many gatherings of politically active people of a certain age: we need to get more young people involved. This sentiment is usually proffered as the antidote for burnout and stagnation in certain circles, and the promise of youth, like the coming of spring, offers hope for a new beginning. Unfortunately for one local community, it looks like six more weeks of winter.
The voters of Monessen elected a young mayor who I’m sure they thought would bring youthful enthusiasm to the office and serve their interests well. It’s impossible to serve your constituents, however, when you don’t bother to show up for work.
Mayor Matt Shorraw has completely abdicated his responsibilities as Monessen’s chief executive in an astounding display of disrespect for those who elected him. The snub is even more egregious to those who actively supported his campaign.
When someone is seeking elective office and they ask for your vote, they are asking for your trust that they will do the right thing in our representative democracy. Placing that trust in you when they check your name and place it in the ballot box is a sacred honor bestowed by your fellow citizens. To sully that honor is inexcusable.
I can’t speak to Mr. Shorraw’s motives for not attending public meetings and doing the job he was elected to do. It may have something to do with political brinkmanship and concern that he may not have the majority votes on measures he wants passed. That should not guide his actions. That’s government. If the young mayor’s attitude is “I won’t play if I can’t win,” then he is also damaging the already negative perception of the millennial generation, and that is unfortunate.
The mayor needs to do the job the good people of Monessen elected him to do, and do it before more damage is done.
Joe Manning
Washington
Editor’s note: The writer is a Washington city councilman.