Corbett best pick to lead city's rebuilding

The most important mayoral election in the history of Cedar Rapids is upon us. The largest single disaster ever recorded in Cedar Rapids has just happened with the most recent flood. Those of us who have felt the sting of that loss will simply move on. The most important issue is that our city does. Stop electing officials because of popularity contests. Think about what we should require public officials to accomplish.

I received a letter from the Army Corps of Engineers that levees will be built in five to 15 years; how long is it going to take to rebuild our city? I have watched Waterloo, Dubuque and Des Moines prosper with state vision moneys and incredible planning by their public officials.

We need to require ourselves, as well as the people we elect, to make the necessary changes and move in the right direction. The next steps that we make from this election will build the foundation for this city for years to come. Do not blame the people you elect; we all need to become active in the system and play a role in rebuilding this city.

I look forward to working with Ron Corbett as the next mayor. His task is not just rebuilding the city, but all the departments within it. Corbett's passion, vision and experience will change our city to modern times. Corbett is Cedar Rapids.

Patrick Lang

Marion