Election's over; now let's fight

As the dust settles from last night's election, let's not forget what the candidates kicked up on their quest for city office.

Since the campaigns started in earnest two months ago, we have heard a lot of fantastic, forward-thinking ideas come from the candidates and the community. This election season has spurred strong public discourse on the most crucial issues facing our city. The community discussions and public debates couldn't have come at a more important time - the stakes are as high as they can get as we struggle with the problems that have plagued us for decades.

The past few weeks have been full of high energy on the campaign trail. We've been impressed with all of the candidates' dedication and desire to be public servants. Based solely on their commitment levels, they all would have done a fine job serving Aspen government.

But of course, we couldn't elect all 11 candidates to three open seats on City Council. So to those who lost last night, we hope the past eight weeks or so haven't been a wasted effort. If your commitment to Aspen is what you say it is, then we expect to see you involved in helping make the town better, either through volunteer efforts or even better, on a citizen committee.

There are plenty of boards and commissions that need new blood and ideas - from Planning & Zoning to Historic Preservation Commission to the Commercial Core & Lodging Commission, and a host of others.

The election is over, but the fight for our quality of life isn't. Whether you are a citizen or someone running for office, it's easy to talk a big game in the two months leading up to Election Day.

But after the spotlight dims, we ask that the candidates and citizens stay involved and help make a difference. If nothing else, candidates need to stay involved to keep their opponents honest.

And as a community, we must ensure that our newly elected representatives stay true to their campaign platforms and promises. What they've said in recent weeks hasn't fallen on deaf ears, and we'll do our best to hold their feet to the fire. It's up to the public to make sure their rhetoric is transformed into action.