Congratulations are in order to my opponents in the Des Moines City Council Position 1 primary election. The campaign has been a true learning experience. Now I know how the deer in the headlights feels. To my small band of supporters, I offer my heartfelt thanks, my unending gratitude and sincerest condolences.

All is not lost. The election tally in the primary clearly shows a nearly 2 to 1 margin favoring municipal reform. I ask voters to join with me and support open, honest and competent city government.

It is essential to deter those who seek to elevate petty personal grievances to municipal-wide concerns, those who substitute micromanagement for reasoned judgment, those who promise no cost miracles but don't deliver, and those who promote private greed as a civic virtue.

Four positions are up for election this year to the Des Moines City Council. In each race the choice is unambiguously clear. My support goes to those candidates who believe in this community, who want to make government work, not mock it.

Support Ed Pina, Carmen Scott, Susan White and Dave Kaplan. Restore our city's good name. Work with these candidates for a bright future for all residents of Des Moines.

Bob Polwarth

Des Moines