Bill Floyd Endorses Scott Drake for Decatur City Commission Seat
Decatur Metro | March 15, 2013Scott Drake’s campaign just sent out the following announcement…
Former Decatur Mayor Bill Floyd announces his support for Scott Drake for City Commission in the upcoming Special Election. “I have worked with Scott for the past 15 years. Scott is committed to Decatur and its neighborhoods. Scott has the experience and vision our community needs to take advantage of the opportunities and meet the challenges that we will face as we move forward,” said Bill Floyd in his endorsement. Mr. Floyd resigned from the City Commission in January 2013. “Mr. Floyd’s approach, personality, actions, and service have shaped our city and we owe him a great deal of gratitude for his service. I am excited to have the endorsement of former Mayor Floyd and, if elected, I look forward to working with him, the current Mayor and Commissioners, our great City staff, and my neighbors,” said Scott Drake.
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I’m no one important, but I endorse Greg Coleson! Go green!
Me too.
Wow. Big news. Kudos to Scott.
So does this mean that Decatur Metro endorses Scott, too? Frankly, it looks that way if there’s a big headline and a full thread devoted to someone endorsing him. I understand that Bill Floyd is a big someone, but still. Personally, I liked some of the things each of the candidates said at the forum last week and my mind is not totally made up. However, it seems the the former mayor’s words about Scott would apply equally well to Greg….
No, that’s not what it means. The other campaign has equal opportunity to make similar announcements.
J-T, now that’s just silly! Of course it’s headline grabbing news when a person endorses who he (or she) would like to see be their successor! Bill Floyd has loved that job with all his heart, and for him to publicly endorse Scott Drake speaks volumes about how highly he regards him. And while it’s for each and every voter to decide who earns their vote, Bill Floyd’s endorsement is a reflection of his personal experience, so, no, his words can’t be equally applied to both.
OMG, mommy and daddy are fighting!
Greg Coleson has been involved in this City since he chose to live here more than ten years ago. His work has been across a broad spectrum of city activities: the sustainability board, the Farmers’ Markets and in many other volunteer activities. This breadth of knowledge and in relationships makes him the best choice for the commission. He has a proactive vision for the city that is both creative and respectful of all of the citizens here.
I do know Greg and as I admire him as a person I don’t think the sustainability board and the farmers market is enough experience to be a commissioner. While both are great activities I haven’t heard much about anything else he has done in Decatur in the short ten years he has been here. I took a look at Scott’s website today and while I can ‘t list everything he has done in Decatur, I can say it is an impressive list. As I don’t live in the district I will not be voting but I love to follow all the local elections. Good luck to both.
Here’s one reason I don’t like anonymous comments. Here is a person who is publicly saying he doesn’t think Mr. Coleson has the experience to be a commissioner, but he isn’t saying who he is. Publicly saying something detrimental about a political candidate under the cloak of a pseudonym isn’t fair, IMHO. For all we know, you could be Mr. Drake or Mr. Drake’s business partner.
Politico – I’ve long felt that Scott Drake’s main claim-to-fame is that he grew up in Decatur (but did not attend Decatur schools all the way through, by the way, as he graduated from Druid Hills High School in unincorporated DeKalb). His other claim-to-fame, it seems, is that his dad was on the city commission and was mayor for a year or two in the 1970s.
I’ve met Scott a few times and felt like he was one of those guys who was always running for something – before he was even running for something. The first time I met him, three years ago (in a Decatur-sponsored class), I felt like I was talking to a somewhat slick used car salesman. The main contribution Scott has made, as I can see, is being involved with the DBA and then serving as president. Now that’s certainly a lot of work – and I’m sure he did a fine job – but it seemed like he was doing that primarily to set himself up to do something bigger – like this. These are simply my impressions, of course. But (my) bottom line is that he does not strike me as a very genuine, authentic person.
Also – what do you mean when you say that Coleson has lived here a “short ten years?” Is that code for he didn’t grow up here and therefore isn’t a valid candidate, the way you believe that Scott Drake is? Now that’s just silly.
As a fellow member of the Environmental Sustainability Board, I can speak to Greg’s commitment to making our community an *even* better place for all of its residents and businesses. His vision of having access to healthy, locally grown food has resulted in not one but two farmers’ markets in downtown and his leadership in the Safe Routes to School program continues to impact not only our children and but also the neighborhoods surrounding our schools. And these are but a few examples. I respect Bill Floyd greatly but think his words of support apply as equally to Greg. Greg’s demonstrated commitment to serving the City and its residents is why he is getting my vote (in fact he already did as I cast it by Absentee Ballot as I am out of town on voting day ;-)).
Scot Drake has our votes!
I am glad to see that Bill Floyd has come out to support someone. Both candidates have had 4 weeks to present their platforms and obtain their supporters. I for one think that it is great to see someone like Mr. Floyd who has contributed so much to our city come out publicly to support the individual taking over his seat on the Commission. Way to go Mr. Floyd for coming out and I am glad to support Scott Drake.
Though I think Scott is a fine person, it seems like Floyd stepped outside the ethical boundary. I think the best approach was to stay out of the process. There’s just too much of the same cloth
in the Commission for the mayor to be handpicking his replacement.
Agreed. Particularly after stating he would stay neutral.
I think Greg’s credentials are more in line with the progressive city Decatur has become.
I wonder what caused the old Mayor to change his position?
Agreed – Coleson appears to be a better match with Decatur’s values.
Really? What are Decatur’s values? I am a resident and didn’t know Decatur had this set of “values” you speak of. What exactly do you think they are?
I dont think Mayor Floyd’s endorsement of Scott Drake crossed any line. Nobody seemed to make this accusation when Mary Alice Kemp “hand picked” her replacement a few years ago.
http://www.decaturmetro.com/2009/07/06/mayor-floyd-and-retiring-commissioner-kemp-endorse-patti-garrett/
I disagree. This isn’t handpicking. This is simply stating that he feels one candidate would be a better fit for the job. He probably knows better than anyone what it takes, and his input is appropriate.
I dont think Mayor Floyd’s endorsement of Scott Drake crossed any line. Nobody seemed to make this accusation when Mary Alice Kemp “hand picked” her replacement – Patti Garrett – a few years ago.
So I guess if Mayor Floyd had endorsed Greg Coleson, that he would not be announcing it to everyone who would listen?
Not sure Marty, not my call. But I am surprised by the change in position.
Since we received the usual card listing Drake’s supporters, this is no surprise. The late endorsement by Floyd makes me wonder if Greg looks like a stronger candidate.
Don’t think so!
For folks who couldn’t make the Candidates Forum last Saturday, it’s available online.( It’s a 4 parter, and there will be a pop quiz. :0) Big thanks to Sarah Flynn for recording it.
http://tinyurl.com/bcvlaa8
Also well worth reading are the two part Q & A’s with the candidates on Patch.
This is a first world problem.
Both Greg and Scott have excelent track records of community service and have the best interests of Decatur at heart. While I can’t vote for both of them in this election I could easily see myself voting for each of them in seperate races.
Mayor Floyd has the absolute right to voice his opinion just like everyone else on this blog. Either candidate will serve the city well.
Amen, Spaceman!
Of course Mr. Floyd has every right to endorse someone. But running a campaign takes time and money, from a lot of people, and I think it unusual that Bill would go back on his word. Mr. Drake seems to be a well qualified candidate, but I support Greg because I think he will better represent my interests on the commission and those of homeowners rather than businesses. Also, he personally asked me for my vote.
I must admit that I am rather shocked that Bill Floyd would publicly endorse Scott Drake 4 days before the election after telling me at the Decatur Farmers Market over 5 weeks ago, and before I decided to run, that he would remain publicly neutral if I did run.
The voters will decide who they want as their next commissioner this coming Tuesday, March 19tth. VOTE COLESON! If elected as your City Commissioner you will know that my word is my bond.
http://www.coleson.org
I am looking forward to finding who each and every voter prefers as their commissioner. If you would like to learn more about my vision for Decatur please come to one of our meet and greets or call me at 404-217-3675.
Saturday March 16th 4pm-6pm
Mark and Penny Treese
350 Lockwood Terrace
Sunday March 17th 4:30pm-6:30pm
Shelley and Andy Rogers and co-host Katie Pedersen
624 Sycamore St.
I am also hand delivering my campaign flyers this weekend so look for me in your neighborhood.
Greg,
I understand your passion for the political process and that to have someone run un-opposed doesn’t bring issues into the open. I agree with you completely and I applaud you for running, but it does concern me that the reason you are running is because no one else would. It doesn’t show me the passion and commitment for the seat, especially when you waited till last day to qualify.
You clearly haven’t talked to Greg. An ad hominem that is so clearly off base seems nasty, faint praise notwithstanding.
Politico – where do you get a statement like this? – “It does concern me that the reason you are running is because no one else would.” What is the basis for this comment?
I have really tried to educate myself on this election, for two main reasons. (1) I think the loss of Bill Floyd will be enormous, and (2) having become more ingrained in the day-to-day operations of COD politics, I have very firm beliefs as to where the current leadership stands, and where we need to go to improve.
I have followed all Q&A sessions, watched the open candidates’ forum online, and have read all these responses. What strikes me most negatively is the completely defensive stance Mr. Coleson takes any time he or his credentials are questioned in the slightest. And now with this post, it seems to me that he is calling Mr. Floyd a liar. Wow. I don’t know what went down in their personal conversation, and perhaps Mr. Coleson is being truthful. Putting this out there, however, seems a bit slimy to me.
I am sure that all kinds of politicking in this election could be called into question, but in our little “Berkeley meets Mayberry” town, this has gotten ugly. That “shocks” me.
I haven’t seen a single sign for Coleson. There is green, and then there is just pretending to run by saying green.
Dana – I’m sorry, but I have no idea what you are getting at.
Especially since a drive ’round the north side will reveal plenty of Coleson signs.
There are tons of signs in my neighborhood, and two in my yard.
Dana – huh? I’m not sure where you live, but drive around Chelsea Heights, Westchester Hills, Ponce de Leon Heights, Lenox Park, etc. and you’ll see lots of Coleson signs. His name on the sign isn’t as visible as Scott’s name is on his sign, though. White signs with green writing.
And what do you mean by this: “There is green, and then there is just pretending to run by saying green.” What in the world is that?
There’s really not a lot of intrigue here. No dark underbelly, hidden agendas, or nefarious intentions. What we have is two fine, committed Decaturites vying for one seat. Either will serve us well.
If someone needed me to characterize the difference between them in 30 seconds or less, I’d say Scott leans a bit towards the economic side of sustainability while Greg leans more towards the environmental side. Not to the exclusion of other sustainability aspects, just in terms of their prioritization. At least that’s the sense I’ve gotten.
Greg’s a friend and I’m supporting him enthusiastically, but I really don’t find this surprising. With all due respect, it’s essentially the Old Decatur Establishment endorsing itself. Somewhat surprising that he stayed on the sidelines as long as he did, and I’d like to think it speaks to Greg’s genuine appeal. Greg even reminds me of Bill. Two lanky men with a Southern drawl and a common touch.
Well said Judd. I do think it’s right to consider stature and other personal attributes. After all our commission is the legislative basis of our city. They are called on to carefully consider ordinances and fund our police force, fire department and our City Court. (It’s not a joke.)
Although we enjoy our small town feel, many serious and important matters that come before the commission. It’s important that our next commission understand the levity of the role and represent our cities character well. When I consider each candidates perspectives; I’m impressed with both. But with Greg’s support of Safe Routes to School, the Farmers Markets and Environmental Sustainability Board; It’s clear to me. I’d LIKE Greg representing me.
Is it a problem that the old Decatur establishment endorses itself? The vision and hard work that many of the old Decatur establishment have done has made Decatur the place it is today. I grew up in Decatur and have personally seen the dedication many of these people have given this great city. I only ask that moving forward whoever is elected have the same determination, work ethic, and vision that those before us created.
It does seem odd that the former mayor would say he wouldn’t publicly support anyone and then turn around and change his mind.
Aside from that, though, I’m not at all surprised that Floyd would endorse Drake. Surely Floyd has known Drake’s family for years since Walt Drake was a commissioner and briefly the mayor. Best way to put it is like Judd said: “…it’s essentially the Old Decatur Establishment endorsing itself.” Not surprising!
I completely disagree. I honestly believe that Mr. Floyd was trying to stay out of the debate as long as he could. He is as concerned, if not more so, than any of us in terms of sustaining and building Decatur. He also knows what it takes to be a commissioner. It’s not keeping the establishment in place, it is simply electing people who know what they want to do and have the experience to do so.
We have only been in Decatur for 10 years or so, and have become very involved with the community. We knew no one in “the establishment”, but have been able to get active anyway. It is about education AND experience, plus the knowledge to know how to get involved and when not to.
Criticize what you will about connections, but the reality is that is how real work gets done in most instances. Mr. Drake is a local business owner, has worked on many of the local events/fundraisers, and has given much unpaid time to making the community a better place.
I agree that Mr. Coleson has contributed to Decatur, but I think there are a few stepping stones he needs to cross before being qualified to be a Commissioner.
What stepping stones are you referring to? He’s been appointed to a city board by the city commission, relocated a business to Decatur, etc.
What stone has Drake crossed that Coleson hasn’t.
Why are you such a hater? You seem to have some ill will?
Well, at least this has gotten people talking and thinking about the election. Seems to me that, respect for Mayor Floyd notwithstanding, this can only serve to fire up Coleson supporters at this point.
Anyway, at least there’s *something* to talk about. You guys wanna see some real fireworks and vitriol? Maybe I’ll run next time there’s an open seat. I guarantee that the names I’d be called would awesome.
I wish you would run for school board. No joke.
I thought about submitting my name for the recent DeKalb School Board appointment
I am really suprised (and a little appalled) at the personal attacks posted here; all the while believing you are showing “support” for your candidate. Do you not realize when you resort to this type of behavior, that it only shows your own true colors and in turn makes the people you are supporting look bad.
This sort of endorsement is very common and Mr. Floyd has the right to publicly support whoever he wants to support. Floyd has been instrumental in making Decatur into what it is today, therefore I respect his opinion as to who he feels would be a good fit for the commission. We should be thanking the people who step up and are willing to take time away work, family etc. to help run our City.
As for the people who are using this outlet as a place to post hurtful nonsense……..I went through Jr. High once and don’t feel it’s necessary to revisit.
I actually thought the discussion was pretty civil. If this qualifies as appalling personal attacks, I’d hate to your reaction to a true blog or board flame war!
Maybe so. I typically stay away from this type of thing. What is a flame war….sounds ridiculous.
Good for you
Flame War (urban dictionary)
A flame war is a heated argument between two individuals, that results in those involved posting personal attacks on each other during or instead of debating the topic at hand.
Most forums have rules that forbid flaming. This is because the quality of conversation on a forum can be seriously degraded by a flame war. Topics can be “hijacked” by two people who would rather flame each other than discuss the subject of the thread.
You forgot the end of the entry:
“A flame war only ends when one side equates the other side with the Nazis…which is inevitable.”
I refuse to follow Godwin’s Law
It seems to me that, when former leaders in Decatur come out formally for a candidate or campaign for them, whether it be for the School Board or City Commission, the other candidate’s campaign is looking pretty strong. Otherwise, if the candidate they support is unopposed or clearly slated to win, they can take a neutral stance.
So two good candidates, two strong campaigns, lots of discussion of issues, lots of neighbors getting together, it’s all a good thing. Democracy and community service in action. I wish this could be the way politics and government were everywhere, at all levels. I know that there’s no human being without self-interest, that money and power corrupt, that humans are tribal by nature, and it’s hard to make democracy work efficiently as you scale up. Nonetheless, it makes me happy to see participatory democracy in Decatur, imperfect as it may be at times.
Mayor Floyd is certainly allowed to change his mind. I do it all the time! Must be closer than they’d like.
This thread is being closed because certain people are posting under multiple names – and email addresses. REALLY? Oh…and all related comments are being deleted.
If you move these kind of conversations to FFAF, I will close that too.