It has been a challenging time for our country as different interests tear at the fabric of our great society. While politics can be thought of as a contact sport, it should not be thought of as a game of “who can shout loudest.”

Last week the Scottsdale City Council reviewed and finally approved a plan to improve 68th Street between Indian School and Thomas Roads. This project, simply put, is intended to align and simplify the road for all users of the public right of way. It strengthens a neighborhood and makes it safer for all.

The process was instructive and we saw expressions both pro and con that heightened the tensions around the council’s decision. This process was instructive in the challenges of modern civic life; some shouting loudly while others presenting a reasoned argument.

Leadership demands that our leaders make the best decision in the public interest, advancing the cause of the greater community. In making the vote to approve this project, our leadership did what was demanded of them, in the face of loud comment, they made the right decision based on the facts and data to sort out what needed to be done.

Public safety is the responsibility of the city and cannot be, nor should be, a matter of a public vote. The public does not decide speed limits, or whether sidewalks should accommodate those with disabilities. Likewise with road configuration changes, the professionals of the transportation department use data and modern design practices to improve the safety for all in our community.

In addition they seek community input to better address local needs and concerns. We appreciate staff’s outreach to those directly impacted.

All citizens of Scottsdale should be proud to have the leadership we have in Mayor Ortega, Councilmembers Solange Whitehead, Tammy Caputi and Tom Durham. Their stepping up to make the right decision takes courage for which our whole community needs to be grateful.

Their work is never finished; we all need to support our city leadership in making the tough choices that lubricate the engine of our community.