Andrew Bolin, who picked up a petition to run for Maplewood Ward 2 council member in September, emailed 40 South News on Friday that he has decided not to run.
He said his business isn’t at the point where he can offer the time the position deserves. Ray Crader, a director on the MRH school board, announced his intention to run for Ward 2 council member on Thursday.
Bolin added some opinions to his email: He said diversity is one Maplewood’s best characteristics, and raising taxes too high could make the cost of living too high for lower income families. He also said he hopes the city preserves its walkability by not giving roads, cars, and especially parking too much priority.
He said diversity and walkability were the biggest factors his family considered in their move to Maplewood. “My fear is that the suburbanization of Maplewood will erase those factors, which make Maplewood a gem of greater Saint Louis.”
Pretty disappointing that he is not going to run especially given his opinions of diversity and walkability. He was a very good option and would have been a more progressive voice on the council compared to Mr Wolf. His view seems to compliment Barry Greenberg’s which in many (if not most) MW residents opinion is a positive thing. Hopefully Mr Crader shares a progressive spirit, but I have my concerns when he already has made a statement emphasizing improvement of roads and infrastructure. Too often the focus in St Louis suburbia becomes the roads piece (and making them immaculate) and less on infrastructure.
Joe S, I actually share your disappointment that Mr. Bolin has decided not to run. One of my motivations in running was to provide residents with a choice. This is something that has been lacking for a long time in Maplewood government. But as a previous business owner myself, I can truly appreciate and respect Mr. Bolin’s choice of dedicating his time.
I look forward to sharing more of my thoughts in the days and weeks ahead. I think you will see I have a very progressive spirit myself. I think you will also see that my views are aligned with the majority of residents of Maplewood.
I have known Barry Greenberg for almost 25 years. I consider him my friend. He and I are both Architects and drummers and I agree with him in many respects. I look forward to the opportunity to work with him and the other Council members, most of whom I have gotten to know over the last few years.
Thank you for your comments.
Ray Crader
Thanks for replying. Taking time to comment and reach out to the public shows a very positive step in my opinion. Looking forward to hearing more and having you as my rep.