Just like everything else in 2020, this year’s Recreation Centers of Sun City election is proving to be just one more anomaly in this year of “new” normals.
The Elections Committee did an outstanding job recruiting seven candidates who’ll appear on the ballot. Each candidate offers experiences and talents that make them uniquely qualified to be elected, most importantly their desire to serve the community.
Serving on the RCSC Board of Directors is often an eye-opening and rewarding experience for those who take a seat at the table. Making decisions that may not be welcomed by many is a tough job — and this year has proven to be a real humdinger when it comes to doing what is reasonable, prudent and best for keeping our members and RCSC staff as safe as possible while following guidelines and restrictions, mandates and requirements.
While a “normal” year would have us electing three new board directors, there are five positions that must be filled as a result of this election. Besides the three vacancies that routinely cycle through the process, there are two spots that are currently held by people appointed by the board who are serving through the end of the year.
That’s one of the reasons your vote in the RCSC election this year is more important than ever.
The three candidates who receive the most votes will fill the three expiring terms that are now held by Vice President Dale Lehrer, Treasurer Sue Wilson and yours truly. The candidates who receive the fourth and fifth highest vote count will serve two years and one year respectively to complete the terms of the vacated seats.
In reality, this means we could have half of the board change in this single election. The “normal” cycle of three expiring terms each year provides consistency and continuity on the board. Let’s hope we can get back on track as a result.
You need to keep in mind that anyone elected to the board must receive a minimum of 100 votes. While Sun City residents are avid voters in most national, state and local elections, not so much when it comes to voting for the RCSC board. Most years, turnout is down right dismal. Remember, any remaining vacancy resulting from this election will once again be filled with an appointee. Don’t just sit back and do nothing. Make your voice heard and make your vote count. Do it online starting Monday, Nov. 9; do it in person on election day, Tuesday, Dec. 8. Request an absentee ballot if you must. Just do it!
Another reason this election is so important is that a search for a new RCSC General Manager will take place next year, for which the Board of Directors is responsible. Who you elect now for the board will be making decisions that will have consequences for years to come.
Yes, just like clockwork, the RCSC Board of Directors election happens every year. Why not make a real difference this time around and vote for a change in this very important, extremely local election?
Remember, it is 2020 and nothing is “normal.”
Editor’s Note: Dan Schroeder is Recreation Centers of Sun City board president for 2020.
