A Times Editorial

Taylor brings open mind to City Council job

In the Crystal River City Council race between incumbent Bonnie Taylor and Roger Proffer, voters must decide on, of all things, the definition of decisiveness.

Proffer is basing much of his campaign on what he says is Taylor's inability to make up her mind on important matters that come before the council. "Her decisionmaking leaves much to be desired," he said. "I really don't think she votes the will of the majority of the people. I think she leans more on what the council wants."

Taylor counters by saying she keeps an open mind, preferring to listen to all sides of an issue before making a decision. "Elected officials have an obligation to be informed. We must study and listen and question before voting. Our duty is to represent all of the citizens of Crystal River."

She said she believes it's good that people can't always predict how she'll vote as a council member. "I'm on the middle of the fence," she said.

Proffer, 61, the owner of the Military Outlet Inc., is seeking his first elected office. He said, however, that he has kept a close watch on local politics for years.

Taylor, 55, is a registered nurse and works at Seven Rivers Hospital and Brentwood Nursing Home. She won the seat in 2000 and now is seeking a four-year term. The race is nonpartisan.

The candidates share similar views on the issues facing the city. Both agree that City Hall needs stability and an end to constant turnover of city managers; both support the current police chief and his efforts to win accreditation for the department; both support projects to beautify the city.

They differ, however, in experience and the depth of understanding of issues. Where Proffer is general, Taylor is more specific.

For example: Proffer lists as a goal: "identifying the priorities of the city and work(ing) toward a gratifying resolution." Taylor's suggestions are more precise, such as starting a revolving, zero-based budget system for City Hall, under which each year one department would get a complete budget overhaul. She also proposes a joint meeting with Citrus County officials to amend the interlocal agreement between the two entities.

Taylor's experience on the council and her desire to be open-minded make her the better candidate. The Times recommends that Crystal River voters return Taylor to the City Council.

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