I like the definition(s) of the word ‘quick’ and I think many of them apply to the flurry of activity that has led to my announcing and filing a run for a seat on the Monroe County Council. Today I filed to run for County Council at Large. That is the seat that I ran for in 2004 and won, leading to my serving one term from 2005-2009.
The first definition of quick online in the Merriam-Webster dictionary is “not dead” and “living, alive”. Well, good thing that applies to my status! And local politics makes me feel very much alive. I’m honored to report that I was recruited again– by people I care about deeply, respect and trust.
Here is the press release I sent out to local media (the H-T, Bloomington Alternative, WFHB, WFIU, IDS):
For Immediate Release: January 31, 2012 Sophia Travis Seeking Return to the Monroe County Council at Large
Former Monroe County Council Member, Sophia Travis, is seeking to rejoin the Council. ”It would be an honor to serve the people of Monroe County again,” stated Travis; and further, “Fairness in government, transparency, and serving the underserved, remain the focus of my priorities as a public servant.”
Experience
Travis served one term on the Monroe County Council from 2005-2009. During that time Travis launched numerous initiatives and drafted several Resolutions including a Fuel Conservation Resolution, a Resolution establishing a model for releasing Community Services Funding, establishment of the Employee Advisory Board for County Government Workers. Travis also advocated for the creation of the Futures Family Planning Clinic. Travis led discussions on issues of primary caregivers and women in Monroe County Government leading to the establishment of proper lactation facilities for women employees of county government.
Travis is most proud of the moment in 2005 when the County Council unanimously approved the funding for people with disabilities and their families needing respite care for the local not for profit agency Options for Better Living (now Life Designs).Travis is also proud of her involvement conceptualizing, and bringing people together to develop the first phase of, the Karst Farm Playscape and Splashpad, built with a $300,000 Kellogg Grant. ”Witnessing the small but mighty Parks Department coordinate that effort was moving. Having an opportunity to help shape the process was an honor and a highlight of my time on the Council,” says Travis.
Looking Forward
Drawing on Travis’s past experience as the County Council’s appointee to the Monroe County Plan Commission, land use issues will be an area that Travis anticipates devoting extra time towards as a returning member of the County Council.
“Not everyone feels well suited for that task. However I found that to be one of the most interesting areas of local government and would relish returning to work with and learn from colleagues on the Plan Commission, the outstanding professional department, various land use committees, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization. Land use issues also connect County Council members with the Board of Commissioners, Surveyor, and Extension Office. I intend to share openly with the public how those facets of local government impact our lives and the future of our community.” Travis maintained a blog throughout her earlier County Council service to inform her constituents of the ins and outs of County government and would continue that tradition.
“I will work tirelessly to bring our collective goals to fruition. Budget constraints and justice issues always loom large but I will always make fairness a top priority. My past experience will be a source of strength, energy and positivity,” claims Travis.
About Sophia
Travis, 46 years old, resides in Clear Creek Township with her husband Gregory Travis and their 3 1/2 year old son Finn. Finnegan was born during Travis’s last year on Council in 2008. Sophia Travis has focused on full time motherhood while remaining a passionate musician and involved in numerous volunteer activities. She recently helped, as a citizen volunteer, to establish the Monroe County Women’s Commission 2011.
———–If some of you used to read pin-the-tail when I was actively blogging and are wondering where the old content is, I am migrating it to this updated version of WordPress as soon as possible pending organizing the servers with the help of technically proficient friends! Cheers!