This past week, I saw a flash of hope in our small corner of the world. Our City Council was tasked with selecting a new member to fill a vacant seat.
The meeting opened, as it always does, with the Pledge of Allegiance. The packed meeting hall spoke in unison, and the words “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all” rang out. As the words left my lips, I wondered whether they felt more hollow—or more precious—in that moment.
Flags are symbols. For a country, a flag represents what holds it together. Ours—with unified stars representing every state and stripes for the original colonies that fought to unite us—embodies our shared struggle for freedom. Red and blue bound together. The flag is meant to withstand battles and fly high as a symbol of pride.
Lately, I’ve witnessed leadership in Washington, D.C., determined to pull at loose threads, attempting to unravel the stitchwork that unites us. Unleashing the military—sworn to protect our flag—against its own people. Villainizing others for their political beliefs, the color of their skin or their sexual orientation. Many feel frozen in this moment, as though our voices no longer matter, our courts have no muster, and our political process is broken.
And yet, here at home, I saw something different.
A total of eight candidates applied for the open seat, each taking turns to share their reasons for wishing to serve. It was a diverse group—with a wide range of backgrounds, skills and philosophies. As the meeting continued, something remarkable happened. Not only did the candidates refrain from belittling one another, they applauded one another’s remarks. Members of the public, who had come to support specific candidates, did the same. They clapped and cheered for all the candidates. Not a single “boo” was heard. No one undermined or spoke ill of anyone else in the room.
The council was left with a very difficult decision, choosing among many qualified applicants. The person ultimately selected, Greg Wimp, will make an excellent councilmember for our community. His background in service—having earned countywide recognition for his volunteerism—along with his experience as a tech industry COO and now as the owner of several successful restaurants, gives him a wealth of insight that will serve Scotts Valley well. His appointment was not divisive, but unanimous and uniting.
Witnessing our community’s reaction was heartwarming. The moment gave me hope that, despite the divisions playing out on the national stage, here at home we remain grounded in civility, respect and a shared commitment to serve. Perhaps, closer to home, we are not as torn as some would have us believe.
Derek Timm is Mayor of Scotts Valley. To reach Timm, email dt***@**********ey.gov or call 831-239-9203.
