Mayor's first major test

Here's a resolution: That the derogatory saying "Good enough for government work" has no relevance around here.

Steve Widmyer apparently agrees.

Just hours into his term as the Lake City's new mayor, Widmyer zeroed in on reports that McEuen Park's massive makeover is running behind schedule and possibly over budget. At a cost of roughly $20 million and mounds of political capital invested by the previous mayor and council members who were almost recalled before deciding not to seek re-election, the park is the region's highest profile project in years. Getting it done on time and on budget is also the first big test for Widmyer and new council members Amy Evans and Kiki Miller.

Now, most new leaders would sit up and take notice if something of this magnitude looked like it was running awry on their watch. What we like about Widmyer's stance is that he's neither engaging in a blame game nor rattling an oratory saber without any real intent to use it. Widmyer is mustering the various forces to find out exactly where the project is in terms of time and money, and to anticipate any problems so they can be circumvented or at least mitigated. What matters is that McEuen is ready to present to the public on Memorial Day. It matters because that's what was promised, and even though it wasn't Widmyer's promise, he's intent on fulfilling the city's pledge.

The mayor is correct in asserting that the city's credibility is at stake with McEuen. Critics can hardly wait for something to go horribly wrong. In their minds, a messed up McEuen would justify their vehement opposition to the project and their support for candidates who were equally livid over the handling of the park.

But Widmyer, Evans, Miller and incumbent Woody McEvers all rolled to easy election wins last fall because citizens believe in their ability to lead positively and to fulfill promises without placing additional burdens on taxpayers. They're intent on ensuring that "good enough for government work" represents the highest standards around.

Ultimately, the citizens will pass judgment - likely on May 26.