[EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a Letter to the Editor, submitted by a verified resident. It does not necessarily reflect the opinions of South King Media, nor its staff:]

“When you want to go far, go together!”

Yesterday’s Des Moines Council meeting featured the announcement of the newly-appointed Mayor Traci Buxton and Deputy Mayor Harry S. Steinmetz. Congratulations to each of you on your new roles.

With a sense of gratitude and deep appreciation for the honor of supporting Matt Mahoney as our Mayor for the last two years, I am certain that transitioning back to the role of a councilmember will not change his commitment to our fine city. His devotion to Des Moines’ growth and prosperity remains steadfast. This transition will merely provide him with a chance to contribute in a different capacity while maintaining his dedication to the community we all hold dear.

I know that his contributions have added to the positive momentum we are building for the city of Des Moines. As he embarks on this new chapter, rest assured that his commitment to Des Moines remains unwavering.

As a new resident of DM, having only moved here last September, I believe as Mayor Traci Buxton steps into the mayoral role, she will bring with her a wealth of dedication and invaluable leadership. I have complete confidence in her ability to lead our beloved city with integrity and unwavering commitment.

Recognizing the responsibilities that come with the role of Mayor, including “participating in the preparation and approval of meeting agendas, presiding over council meetings, and representing the city for ceremonial purposes,” I am equally confident that Deputy Mayor Harry Steinmetz will seamlessly step into these duties in Traci’s absence.

I am genuinely excited about the possibilities that lie ahead with our current city council, along with Des Moines residents, and the collective impact we all can make on our city’s future.

Never let it be said that one cannot move mountains or the Titanic because former Mayor Matt Mahoney, along with the city council and city staff, just did that in just two years. Congratulations, Matt, on a job well done!

It may have cost you politically, but you helped bring about much-needed change. I appreciate you all and know that my choice to live in Des Moines was the right one!

I eagerly anticipate your continued collaboration in making Des Moines an even better place to live, work, and thrive.

Warmly,
– Bettina Carey

EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have something you’d like to share with our highly engaged local Readers? If so, please email your Letter to the Editor to [email protected] and, pending review and verification that you’re a real human being, we may publish it. Letter writers must use their full names and cite sources – as well as provide an address and phone number (NOT for publication but for verification purposes).

7 replies on “LETTER TO THE EDITOR: When you ‘Want To Go Far, Go Together’”

  1. Mahoney is unfit for office, Bettina. His pals on the City Council from your circle of friends did the right thing by not making him Mayor again. But that’s not much of a political price to pay for his habitual and often malicious abuse of office. Which I’m sure predates your involvement in Des Moines politics by many years, so I don’t blame you for not being aware. Welcome to Des Moines!

    1. Ditto, welcome, Bettina, but as a resident with less than a year in-place, I’m not sure how you could attribute “moving mountains” and bringing about “much-needed” change to former mayor Mahoney. We’ve been here for over 25 years, raised our kids here and supported previous councils – while I’m happy for your enthusiasm, I’m not sure of the basis of your optimism and salute to Mahoney.

      Thank you for your contributions to the community as a whole.

  2. Rob and Mysty, are you the internet trolls we so often read about who are never pleased with anything other than cutting down others and complaining?

  3. Well said, Bettina! Knowing Matt, Traci and Harry’s dedication and commitment to our city, I’m encouraged about the future of possibilities and prosperity here. Stepping into leadership as a politician requires caring and commitment but also guts and grit. I’m so grateful for these great leaders be the ones who are skilled at listening and building consensus and work so hard to represent my needs, wants and vision for the hometown we love. Here’s to a great 2024 in Des Moines!

  4. Thank you for your service as Mayor of Des Moines. Now city council Matt Mahoney the work of building a great city, hoping to be finished by you as well. While I support Mayor Traci Buxton and Deputy Mayor Harry Steinmetz as well, I would like to see more team work from all of you.
    Sadly we have council member that rather nominates itself and fight against good things that will bring a great improvements to the city.
    Let’s bring more positive changes and start new year 2024 with healthy energy and better team work. There is no need egocentric people making decisions in our beautiful city of Des Moines Washington.
    We need more of a “Lifestyle of Des Moines “.

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