Even though their first City Council meeting does not begin until 7 o’clock this evening, Thomas Small and Göran Eriksson already have found out that they have graduated to the big leagues.
The longer they prepared for their maiden meeting, the more complexities they encountered.
Mr. Eriksson and Mr. Small both have earned large dollops of praise for being uncommonly well prepared as appointed members of advisory commissions.
This was an asset that quickly grew them into respected leaders, not just out-front guys.
One reason they beat out four rivals in last month’s Council election was voter familiarity with their strong commission identities – Mr. Small with the Cultural Affairs Commission, Mr. Eriksson as captain of the Financial Advisory Committee.
Mr. Eriksson was saying this morning that the multiple issues on tonight’s agenda marked a huge departure from his committee meetings.
Next hurdle: How to effectively, efficiently prepare for City Council meetings.
This is an astute, accomplished entrepreneur who owns two profitable business, one with international dimensions who was admitting to being slowed.
He promises to seek out mavens in the field.
Before the next Council meeting, Mr. Eriksson said he will consult with former Councilmen to learn their formulas and secrets.