“Go Big” is what most of us think of when it comes to government on a national level. During this time of presidential campaigning, the candidates on both sides begin to make huge promises of what they will accomplish if elected. Polls show that the majority of voters do not believe that the promises made will ever be carried out. But, even so they go cast their vote.

In our small community of Pleasanton - “The City of Live Oaks and Friendly Folks” - it is not the “big change” that we are looking for in the upcoming election, but the simple restoration of the belief that we can do great things together.

Yes, our issues up for vote are small in comparison to the ones on the national level. But, these issues are made big because of the close proximity in which we live with each other and the impact that a single citizen’s votecan have on the future of our city.

We live, learn, work and play side-by-side daily and weekly through our neighborhoods, our businesses, our retail stores, our schools, our athletic events, 4-H, scouting, churches, clubs, associations and the people who we pass routinely on our streets and stops along the way. Our voices count. Our voices can be heard. The actions we take have big impact on our community and all those that live in it.

In the words of City Manager Bruce Pearson, “Pleasanton has broad shoulders, we stand on our own asking help from no one, we remain financially sound and we are a city filled with great leaders.” Those picturesque words describing Pleasanton bring to mind perfectly the bronze statue of “Mr. Cowboy” who stands tall in front of City Hall in honor of our cowboy heritage.

The cowboy proud and erect stares directly at the giant old oak tree and into the heart of downtown Pleasanton’s historic Main Street. What is the view we want him to see in the many decades to come? Closed down and abandoned buildings with cars waiting at our 5th stoplight? Or, a bustling group of people of all ages and all cultures, those with money and those without, those who can read and those who desire to learn, those who are internet savvy and those who have online access for the first time - coming and going from morning until night - each time leaving a more knowledgeable, engaged and active citizen. Will he see a town disconnected from its heritage or one more connected to its city than ever before possible.?

I hope we give Mr. Cowboy a view that does not include locked doors and empty buildings. But, a view of open doors and buildings come to life with innovative, educational and entertaining programs and services for everyone in this great city.

Please take the time, less than one short hour out of your year, to go vote in the May 12th Election for Initiative #1 and Initiative #2.

NOEL WILKERSON HOLMES is the Associate Publisher of the Pleasanton Express. Contact her at 830-281-2341 or nwilkersonholmes@pleasantonexpress.com