By REP. SARAH VANCE
From homemaker to lawmaker. Just. Like. That?
On this day, 6 years ago, I submitted my declaration of candidacy to run for the Homer City Council. It was my first time ever running for office, and before that year, I didn’t even know the name of my mayor. I didn’t know the difference between a resolution or an ordinance, much less know how to write law. What I did know was that the people needed someone to speak up for them.
So, I ran. And lost. Bad.
But then I picked myself up and waited. I waited until I was asked to run for the Alaska State House.
Then I declined. Twice.
After the second time, my husband said to me “I think we can do this.” So, we did.
By the grace of God, I have now been serving in the Alaska Legislature as the people’s representative for five years.
Serving in public office is not for the faint of heart or the weak kneed. It takes guts. It takes grit. And lots of sacrifice. But it’s worth it.
My eldest daughter shared with me the quote by Thomas Paine that surely she reflects on in our life. “If there must be trouble, let it be in my day, so my child may live in peace.”
So here we are in August when most people are thinking about fishing and getting children ready for school. I want to turn your attention to local government. You know, the guys who tax you and determine your children’s education? Yeah. Those guys. The same ones you ignore until you’re good and mad at something that went very wrong.
What if you — yes YOU — got involved today and shared your insight into the future of this town? Could you make a difference?
I think you can.
If a homemaker can become a lawmaker, surely you can too.
Now is the time. Between Aug. 1 and Aug. 14 at 4:30 pm is the window to run for local office in the City of Homer as well as the Kenai Peninsula Borough. You can do it. I believe in you!
Rep. Sarah Vance represents House District 6, the Southern Kenai Peninsula and several Kachemak Bay communities.
