Great leaders as mayors are highly visible in times of crisis. The classic example was that of Rudy Giuliani with the 9/11 attacks. He served to calm and reassure New York City as well as the entire nation.
By comparison, Longmont mayor Dennis Coombs was not at all visible to the public for 2 1/2 days after the September flood. When he did appear via media, it was a hastily produced web video of little value.
I have no doubt that Dennis Coombs is a terrific restaurant owner, but he is a fish out of water serving in public office as mayor. Challenger Bryan Baum has always carried the presence and wisdom of a mayoral leader and is best suited to lead Longmont both in good times and in times of crisis.
