Centralia and Chehalis voters will soon be in the midst of changing landscapes.

    In recent years the two city councils and administrations have switched roles. Centralia appeared contentious, Chehalis seemed calm.

    Not too long ago, Centralia’s City Council was of differing opinions, with occasional tension bubbling to the surface. The votes were often not unanimous. Opposite opinions were respected, though disagreement was obvious. 

    Skirmishes were public and not always productive. Local access television coverage has cooled down potential disagreements and emotional antics. Lately, the council appears to lean more towards being a rubber stamp group, never letting opposing views spill into the public limelight.

    However, at the south end of the Miracle Mile, the Chehalis City Council in the past was, on the surface of media attention, running smoothly. Votes were unanimous and little dissension was reported. Some believe this is because a select group of councilors and city staff made all the decisions with little public input. There is still no television to give voters an interesting view of Chehalis council outbursts and conflict.   

    Today, with a new administrator in Chehalis and changes in council members, choices and direction are challenged. Unanimity does not reign supreme and we think this is healthy in uncertain times. However, too many decisions are still made in “Executive Session,” choices that would interest the taxpayers.

    Two distinct Chehalis races appear to have alliances. The first clue was the posting of yard signs. Joanne Schwartz and Bob Spahr were out first and next to each other, then their opponents, incumbents Chad Taylor and Rob Fuller, had partnering signs. While only a shallow voter would base a vote on yard signs, this is a clear indication to the Chehalis public of diverging paths.

    We are pleased to see the level of cooperation between Centralia and Chehalis much more congenial than has been the case in previous administrations. The challenges for both are similar, starting with budgets.

    If there are alliances in Centralia, we have yet to hear of them. If signs are an indication, it’s a hodge-podge of independent campaigns. 

    We suggest voters in both cities pay special attention this year. Read news reports, campaign literature and view the interviews on chronline.com.

    The economy has not recovered and the budget challenges strapped administrations, as well as the supporting taxpayers. And it may get worse.

    This is indeed a time to look more at direction, policies and political histories rather than popularity contests. 

    This editorial page and our Web site will address specific campaigns in the coming days leading up to the mailing of ballots to the public on Oct. 16.