It is with some consolation that we all can breathe a sigh of relief from the constant drumbeat of contention, confusion and controversy from vice-mayor and Ward 2 Councilman Joseph Mickens Sr. All the residents of Ward 2 ever wanted was a level playing field and the opportunity to cast their vote for the candidate who would best serve their interest. Mr. Mickens as the incumbent who have already served four terms in office should not have discouraged a free and fair election. I’m sure in the final analysis of the matter the judge wasn’t convinced of any of the testimony put forth by his attorney. What has become so perplexing for me to get my head around is the fact that many of the candidates running for public office all fail to get their personal business affairs in order before publicly declaring their intention to be an office holder. How can you not know you owe property taxes that are delinquent as of March 12, 2025 in varying amounts and several years but you are asking the taxpayers of Columbus to trust you with millions of dollars of their hard earned dollars and turn a blind eye towards me when I’m not being responsible or accountable? I was raised by my  grandmother who shared much of her wisdom with me and one thing she always told me that stuck with me over the years. If you don’t know how to take care of your own business then you definitely are not ready to be meddling in mine! Now translate that for the mayoral candidates who are now delinquent. You’ve got to “clean up” before “you mess up.” Then you’re starting all over again! And the public will know all of your business. We can and we should do better Columbus.

Larry Watson

Columbus