Will new council members restore balance to Loveland politics? (original) (raw)

The previously deadlocked Loveland Council may finally get back in motion as new members assume their roles next month.

Election night saw voters reject two incumbents who were closely aligned with ousted former Mayor Mark Fitzgerald – Councilwoman Pam Gross and Councilman Stephen Zamagias. Voters overwhelmingly supported the re-election bids of incumbents Ted Phelps and Rob Weisgerber.

Phelps and Weisgerber were two of the four individuals endorsed by Loveland Community Heartbeat, the political action committee that formed earlier this year focused on removing Fitzgerald and changing the face of Loveland Council. Council newcomers elected Tuesday night, also backed by the PAC, are Neal Oury and Tim Butler.

Gross said she's proud of her accomplishments as a councilwoman.

"Our city is full of energy, excitement, and economic opportunities," she said. "This was all accomplished without asking taxpayers to pay additional taxes."

Gross intends to remain active.

Weisgerber is thankful to be re-elected and said that the message from voters was very clear.

"They will not tolerate the behavior exhibited by the last council," Weisgerber said. "They expect better."

Since Fitzgerald’s exit, Loveland Council has been unable to agree on the simplest of issues including an appointee for Fitzgerald's vacated seat. The political scene also took on a negative tone as the creator of Lovelandtruth.com, Loveland businessman Tim Canada, candidates, residents and PAC members exchanged emails and social media comments in support or opposition of council candidates.

Once seated, the new council will get down to work. First and most important is restoring pride and civility to meetings, Weisgerber said.

"This can be done by listening with respect and in welcoming the residents' input and involvement, not just at meetings," he said. "I have specific suggestions on how to implement improvements along those lines, but it will be an open discussion at council and in public to refine or modify prior to implementing."

Oury is new to council but entered the political scene as a contender for Fitzgerald’s seat if an election was required. With Fitzgerald’s resignation, Oury then turned his focus to the four open council seats.

The new and re-elected council members will be sworn in 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, at Loveland City Hall. This will also be the reorganizational meeting so a mayor and vice mayor will be appointed as well.