point of view

We are constantly required to make decisions about our actions. From breakfast food to career choices; there are big & small choices. But what decision is correct? This question can create uncertainty, confusion....even blind panic! But what if there isn't a 'right & wrong' decision in most cases? Instead, what if life was a series of decision options, each with pros & cons? I believe this state represents reality more frequently than the right/wrong decision mindset. How do you make decisions when there are no absolutes? One option is to focus on values-based choices & acts.

Values are broad beliefs that guide our lives & actions. They are beliefs that determine what is important to us. Values are subjective; no one can tell you what to prioritise (not even Mahatma Ghandi). The list of potential values is enormous. It can even be harder when making a group decision, like the job of a city council person. For that reason, the city council met to define their core values, the values that they agree would guide their decisions. Those core values are -

• Is it fiscally responsible?
• Will our action be good for the future?
• Will our action respect our heritage?
• Is our action forward thinking?
• Is our rationale defensible?

One advantage of values-driven behaviours is that you always remain true to what's important. In this way, you get something positive from every experience, no matter the outcome. Let's us know what is important to you. Visit https://excelsioracommunityrising.com/public-engagement-opportunities so we hear your voice in Excelsior's future plans.

Monday, 6pm - City Council Meeting

Thrusday, 11:30am - Clay County EDC Keystone Awards; 5pm - Lewis Ribbon Cutting

Friday, Saturday @ 7:30pm , & Sunday Matinee @ 3:30pm - Annual Christmas Show @ SOB

Saturday - Wine Trail, Holiday Homes Tour

City Council will consider -

• two liquor licenses due to new ownership for Planet Liquor & Mart #2 @ 1005 Isley Blvd. and #3 @ 960 Isley Blvd.
• a public hearing regarding proposed revisions to sewer charges & consider imposing rate changes. The proposed change would increase the base rate from $23.60 to $24.63 and the rate per 1,000 gallons from $11.58 to $12.08, effective January 1st. As an example, an average customer uses 3,000 gallons/month, which would be an increase of $2.53/month.
• recommendations from PZ to create utility easement for an existing Ameren U/E power line & right-of-way vacation for 331 Persimmon. The house was constructed in approximately 1930 partially on the public R/W, identified as Rowell Avenue, an unimproved street that also contains the driveway to the house & provides access to the adjacent, vacant property to the north; the request is made to bring the existing house into conformance to facilitate a potential future sale of the property.
• recommendations from PZ to amend Section 400.080, 400.240 and 210.125 of the municipal code regarding animals & fowl will achieve consistency while advancing the purpose & intent of the new Section to permit backyard chickens

Keystone Awards recognize businesses that have made significant contributions to Clay County's economy & quality of life. The awards recognize both new & existing busineses that have increased their commitment to Clay County through job creation, capital improvements, expansions, new equipment, and technology.

ESSD's ribbon cutting for the new Lewis Elementary School. ESSD plans to move into the building over the Christmas break.

Slightly Off Broadway's Annual Christmas Show - Come enter the season with singing & good cheer! Our Children's Choir will delight you! Feel free to sing along with your old favorites & maybe find some new ones!

Ride the Wine Trail to Fence Stile Vineyard, Van Till Family Farm Winery & Sharmrock Hills Vineyard & Winery (transportation only) 10:50am - 3:30pm

Holiday Homes Tour - take a tour through some of ES' most beautifully decorated homes during the Holiday Homes Tour. Each home offers a unique glimpse into stunning holiday decor, & you'll leave with plenty of inspiration for your own festive transformation. It's the perfect holiday outing to get into the spirit of the season!

Celebrating work anniversaries this week - Brad Smith, Assistant Fire Chief - 37 years; Joe Maddick, Fire Chief - 30 years; & Nate Williams, Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Center- 9 years.

Joy is abundant in the historic downtown of ES. Known for ts thrift stores, artsy vibes, historic homes, & friendly community, the small town begins its Christmas celebrations as early as the last week of November, perfect for those feeling the Christmas spirit (or the holiday shopping desire) ahead of time. KCUR's Adventure