A city councilor sits on the front lines of political discourse and has the job of balancing reality with community needs and wants. Success as a councilor requires thoughtfulness, integrity and courage. Neither party holds a monopoly on these traits. I have seen these qualities in our local Democrats just as much, or more, than in our local Republicans.

Thoughtfulness is important because problems must be understood before they may be solved. Integrity matters because without integrity, the chances of a councilor becoming a target for manipulation increase. Courage is key because it is impossible to please everyone, and, often the correct answer is not the answer that loudest might advocate for.

Councilor Erin O’Neill began her service just as the city was grappling with dire financial forecasts. She served first as chairwoman of the Police and Fire Committee, and most recently, as chairwoman of the Employee Relations Committee.

From the beginning, she has helped the council navigate complex issues, and in doing so, has helped to turn the ship. She has contributed to solving issues related to the city budget. We now have over a million dollars in a new budget stabilization fund, and we have what Moody’s defines as a healthy amount in the General Fund.

Beyond her committee duties, Councilor O’Neill has been a leader in the city’s fight against the drilling of three new waste injection wells within two miles of four aquifers serving 32,000 people.

She cares about the future of our city, and she possesses the traits necessary for success — thoughtfulness, integrity and courage.

Regardless of your party affiliation, a vote for Councilor O’Neill is a vote for smart leadership, and it is a vote for the prosperity of our great city.

Susan Vessels, Marietta City Council president