Letter: Grateful for Bothwell’s integrity, vision and leadership

Graphic by Lori Deaton

Uncompromising in the right places and spaces, Councilman Cecil Bothwell digs in deeply to honor his personal integrity in the interest of our community. As always, Cecil continues to fight consistently and powerfully to protect the very soul of our fair city against outside interests.

Cecil’s steadfast work and vision for the transformation of the former “Pit of Despair” into a wholly democratic, community-friendly green space may seem at a glance to be a nice, even a quaint idea. But in reality, fighting for and protecting St. Lawrence Green as a vision of a living vibrant park for our community is much more than a quaint idea.

The fight for the St. Lawrence Green green space is a flashpoint. It represents a moment when we as citizens can choose a City Council that seeks to protect and encourage the values of inclusion, diversity, beauty and community — in stark contrast to the greed-driven forces that cater to those who visit but are not invested in the soul of our city.

History teaches us that few politicians are willing to stand up for what they believe in when the dominant forces of capitalism are at play. Cecil is willing to wage this fight, for the benefit of all who live near, garden, participate in events at or pause to catch one’s breath in a green community space — a space which is vital to the well-being of a walkable, livable city.

Supporting Cecil and other candidates who will ensure the space becomes a park represents votes for the soul of our collective community. We are voting for Cecil and two other candidates who will honor community over special interests on Oct 10 and on Nov. 7.

— Ellie Richard and Elaine Lite
Asheville

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2 thoughts on “Letter: Grateful for Bothwell’s integrity, vision and leadership

  1. Lulz

    LOL, claims the RAD will cost such and such, acts surprised when the cost is doubled. And of course praises city employees for being open and honest. On top of mismanaging tax money and diverting it to the RAD, he is lacking substance. Takes positions based on latest trends. While in office, has seen the area gentrified and the impact of tourism placed squarely on the backs of tax payers while those enriching themselves are NOT putting it back into the area.

  2. 4thepeople

    Right on! The St. Lawrence green tussle is a perfect example of Cecil fighting for the people of Asheville. He is willing to take on the establishment, regardless of the odds, if it’s the right thing to do. The people of Asheville need to get him back on council and defeat Gwen Wisler, the incumbent establishment candidate (and current vice mayor) who is beholden to developers and special interests.

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