Appointed to city council

I am the newest member of Oakland’s City Council. Another member resigned due to a job change. I was one of five people that asked to fill the position.

I will be sworn in at the October meeting. I am looking forward to serving the people of Oakland.

Oakland Mayor Ted Beckner asked me why I wanted to be on the city council. I had wanted to be on for quite sometime and always knew why. Everyone should give back to the community they live in. I wanted to do so by being on the council. There are many ways to serve a community. This was my way of doing so.

Having been in the journalism business for over nine years now, I have attended many meetings. Prior to that, I had never gone to one. I was one of those people that didn’t pay attention to the city council and how hard they work. I never even knew what went on at meetings.

That all changed after going to my first meeting.

I was quite impressed, and in awe of what it takes to keep a city running. I also became quite aware of how much each city official has to endure. There are always issues that come forth from the citizens that take time to discuss and work out in the best interests of all involved.

I believe everyone should go to meetings so people can see how hard the elected officials in their community work to keep the place called home a place to be proud of, and above all, a well-run community. It isn’t easy from everything I have seen. And, I am about to find out more on the subject.

I am anxious to get started.

Above all, I am proud and honored to serve.

Denise Gilliland, Editor and Chief, Kat Country Hub.