(PENSACOLA) --- A local poll proves getting elected officials off the dais and into the community could be a good thing.
A three-day poll on Nextdoor drew attention, with 21 residents (81%) reasoning that elected officials should volunteer, while 5 (19%) said no. The reason for the ask is simple curiosity, no agenda.
(Photo: Nextdoor, Springfield Poll)
After covering local Pensacola politics, including the city council and commissioners, I see countless residents approaching elected officials on behalf of their non-profit groups. Countless hours of volunteer work dedicated to so many local issues prove Pensacola’s heart is good.
According to the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, there are up to 78 community and civic organizations to volunteer at, leaving officials plenty to choose from, if they can, with Google noting otherwise.
When searching “mandatory volunteering for mayor and councilmembers is not legally required and generally discouraged,” specifically noting, “while community service is encouraged to build local connections, mandating it creates ethical concerns, liability issues, and potential conflicts of interest if the official steers public funds to the non-profit.
(Photo: Google search on elected officials volunteering)
That doesn’t stop Newark, California, Councilwoman Eve Marie Little. Her dedication to the Girl Scouts proves politicians can, in fact, take the time to really serve the public without seeking anything in return.
It just so happens she did, for going above and beyond when she didn’t have to, as the adult volunteer award.
(Photo: Councilwoman Eve Marie Little, Newark, California Facebook Post)
The local poll was nothing more than food for thought and carries no judgment on those who do not spend a little extra time in the community for a cause they are passionate about.
In the meanwhile, OpGov.News thanks all Pensaocla volunteers for what you do, truly making the Panhandle city better for it.
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