Commitment to Public Service

By Rhonda Shader, Placentia Mayor Pro Tem

Three weeks after Election Day 2016, the results were finalized. I had won my election by only 207 votes! Talk about every vote matters. I originally felt relieved when the hard work of running for office had ended, but I now realize my work was just beginning.

Rewind to early 2015 when I was serving on the City of Fullerton Economic Development Commission and on the Fullerton Policy Chief’s Advisory Board. I was receiving introductions and comments about how great it would be if I would someday serve as a Councilmember. Wait! What? What value would I bring to this position? I had spent my entire adult life grateful for those who served in public office because I knew it was not easy. After several long conversations with people I respected and trusted, I realized that it was my turn to step up. Running for office was never on my agenda or part of my life vision.

Now, after one year as a Placentia City Councilmember, I must admit that I love it. Those smart people in my life saw something I had not and they were right. I find myself well suited to serve in this capacity. I thrive on the challenges and the quick decision making necessary when navigating multiple government agencies. I enjoy encouraging the people who work for the City and letting them know they matter. The issues and needs that come before me are so varied, I draw from every part of my life and person to perform.

My daily agenda is simple. Glean through conversations, interactions, social media, and correspondence of what the people of Placentia want and work to make that happen. I recognize that the voters made me their choice for a variety of reasons. One big reason is that I am a small business owner. I have always been an advocate for small business at the State level, but I am now learning how to advocate at the City level. I am finding that nothing is ever just at the City level. It frequently involves the County, the State and in many cases the Federal government. I use my position to gain access to the right people and share the story of my city and to roll out the welcome mat for economic growth for Placentia in any way I can.

Public service is so much bigger than who I am and as long as my constituents feel I am adding value, I will be grateful for the opportunity to engage in this way. My e-mail signature for my “city” e-mail has the following quote by Danny Thomas, which sums up the reward of serving in this position: “Success has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It’s what you do for others.”

- DANNY THOMAS