Dear Friends:
For the past eight years I've cherished an honor of a lifetime...being the Mayor of my hometown.
I embraced the part time job as a full-time responsibility because being a good Mayor is not simply about chairing two council meetings a month.
I believe the principal function of a Mayor is communicating with the public, City staff and the City Council.
Being Mayor is about being "out there," listening to what others have to say and responding as quickly as possible. This includes, but is not limited to, timely garbage pick up, supporting our police and firefighters and, yes, working to maintain state infrastructure like roads, sidewalks and storm drainage that pose a threat to the safety and the beauty of the community.
In schools and at public events, on my WHHI television show and through the 400+ newsletters I have posted during the past (almost) eight years:
I have spoken from my heart about my love for Beaufort;
I have been truthful and transparent; and
I have admitted when I made mistakes.
I have tried to fully engage our special community; promoting the unique place we call home, helping the many cultural, civic and social service organizations that do so much for people.
Since a critical function for a Mayor is to lead a team, I want to acknowledge my appreciation for, and thanks to, City Council Members Donnie Beer, Phil Comer, Gary Fordham, MikeMcFee, Stephen Murray, George O'Kelley and Mike Sutton with whom I have served. We have invested more time and worked more closely as a team than any councils I can remember. Consequently we have achieved much through both challenging and good times.
This week I will file for re-election as Mayor because there are unfinished projects and there is more to be done.
To help our small city grow, while maintaining our historic authenticity, I will need your help: volunteer to serve on city boards and commissions, come to city council work sessions and meetings and, in any way you choose, weigh in on the great future of our very special hometown.
Between now and November 8th, I will also need your help hosting neighborhood get togethers, putting signs in your yards and at your businesses, talking with friends and, if you are able, making financial contributions.
I hope you will support me and be part of my continued campaign to make Beaufort a better place for all.
Thanks so much for the opportunity and trust you have bestowed upon me.
With a love for our great hometown, I am,
Sincerely,
Billy Keyserling
