Paul Clinton
CIVIC CENTER -- Promising to bring a passion for public service and
civility to public debate, David Laurell was elected to the City Council
in a runoff election April 13, 1999. In a hard-fought campaign, Laurell
unseated incumbent Ted McConkey, capturing 62% of the votes.
Roughly one year after he was sworn in, Laurell, 43, sat down with the
Leader at his Magnolia Park home to talk about his first stint in office.
Laurell said it's been a busy time as he's learned about the machinations
of city government and rebuilt the home he shares with his wife, Max. The
home was partially destroyed in a fire shortly before the election.
Q: How do you feel about your first year on the council?
A: I am as lucky and as fortunate as any elected official in the
country... I have had the opportunity to serve with four people I
consider to be friends, who I have the highest respect for. There's no
infighting or backbiting among us. On any Tuesday night, we have our
disagreements. But you have never seen us get to the point where it ever
came anywhere close to being personal. Even if it has gotten a little
heated at times, once the vote has been taken, it's over and done with.
We're one for all and all for one. There are some people who perceive the
council to be too cozy. That certainly is not the case.
Q: During the campaign you were accused by some of changing your name
to hide your past. Did the campaign leave a bad taste in your mouth?
A: Not at all. No one gets into this process thinking that somebody's
going to throw rose petals in your path so you can walk into office.
That's the nature of politics. You can say anything you want about me,
but don't say anything about my wife.
Q: Do you bring a different style to the council than Ted McConkey?
A: That's obvious. Not during the campaign or any time since I've been
on the council have I ever wanted to say anything negative about my
predecessor. He had his style just like I have my style. I think Ted had
his place on the council. I personally don't perceive that as the most
positive way to get business done.
Q: How do you formulate your opinion on an issue?
A: Listening to everybody. Talking to people. I'm out and about in the
community a lot. No matter where (I am), I'll always say to somebody,
"What do you think about what the council is doing?" So you accept
information and you accept people's comments and concerns. Then when the
issue comes before council and through the deliberation process you
