Jennifer Mitchell Earley

Picture life before democracy: a world ruled by tyrants, people arrested for unknown reasons, unequal rights for different classes, and death to those who opposed unreasonable tyrants. How could this happen? Why weren’t these rulers questioned? History shows that Kings gave these tyrants rule without question, despite their lack of morals and principles.   As a result, the people of Europe were oppressed and impoverished, with no way of escaping.   Fortunately, on the horizon, a different government was arising: a government comprised of the people, by the people, and for the people. People began to think about their most basic rights as human beings, their inalienable rights. People throughout Europe realized that their kings were not above reproach and, most importantly, had no right to continue governing without input from the people. As the Europeans established their colonies in America, they aspired to create a new form of government, one that would give the people a ...

In 1997 as a new Elected Official, I was thankful to have my dad to help me navigate my first four-year term.  My dad’s guidance helped me steer clear of the slippery slopes that entice, entangle, and sometimes envelop novice elected officials... Nearly fourteen years into my career, I truly understand how vital it was to have had the tutelage of my dad.  For many newly elected officials, it’s an exciting yet overwhelming period.  Without having prior political knowledge or the wisdom of a mentor, this begins the “sink or swim” or “trial by fire” season of their political life. As a learning and development consultant with over 20 years of experience designing, developing, and delivering training programs, I can attest to the necessity of providing individuals with the opportunity, encouragement, and tools/training that they need to succeed.  To this end, I developed a handbook to assist Council by documenting acceptable practices and clarifying expectations to help...

As an Elected Official, I have always believed in the importance of keeping my constituents informed.  So much so that for the last 10 years I have provided my residents with a monthly, quarterly, or semiannual newsletter containing news that they can use on policies, processes, laws, budget, state and federal issues, municipal matters, etc. No tax payer dollars have been used for the production or dissemination.  Rather, the newsletters are paid for and delivered to each resident by me.  This was something instilled in me by my father who did the same throughout his 25-year record of public service. Knowledge is power and I want my electorate (home owners and apartment dwellers) to be actively engaged in order to effectively participate in our local democracy. Keep in mind, your target audience won't always come to meetings, town halls, or events.  Some won't visit your website due to capability, access, or other issues.  Various avenues should be used to prov...