To the Editor:

On February 19 Federal Way citizens will be voting on a critical issue: whether or not to change the city administration to a strong, elected mayor or to continue the present City Council/City Manager form of government.

When we decided to attend the debate on this issue on January 16 at Federal Way High School, we did so because we needed to learn more about this issue. We had no idea which way to vote. Now we do.

Currently the elected city council hires a City Manager after an extensive national search and review process. The manager must meet demanding qualifications in urban planning and administration.

This is a non-political position. If the manager performs in an unsatisfactory manner, he can be dismissed by a majority vote of the city council.

This system of a professional city manager is working very well for our community. Yes, proponents of an elected mayor, in hindsight, can point to "mistakes" made. But who is to say that an elected mayor/city council would not have made the same decisions?

On the other hand, an elected mayor is a political position with strictly local candidates who may or may not have the same qualifications as a city manager.

His/her election would be financed and supported by individuals or parties that have special interests that may not always be in accord with the best interests of the community. More importantly, the removal of a mayor for mismanagement is a lengthy, expensive process sometimes involving a recall election (i.e., the city of Spokane).

We are not writing on behalf of any committee or organization. We are moved to do so only because we feel this issue deserves careful consideration.

Please examine both sides before you vote.

Jay and Pat Allison

Federal Way