My point here is not to heap criticism on Mayor Houston. I believe Mayor Houston wants to make a positive difference for Springfield. But most people familiar with politics and government know that after the campaign is over and the catchy rhetoric fades from memory, the hard reality of governance awaits. Mayor Houston claims now that he didn’t realize how difficult things were going to be when he was campaigning and is now striking a much more measured and moderate tone. Definitely smart politics, but honest politics? I’m not so sure.

Now that the campaign is over and the voters have made a choice, the job of the people, is not over – it has just begun. At every level of government, it is up to us to remind our elected officials of the promises they made when seeking our support and to let them know we care enough to expect accountability and results.

Mayor Houston, this is not sour grapes. I really do hope you accomplish what you promised us during the campaign. Because if you do Springfield will be a much better place and you will be a great mayor.

Sheila Stocks-Smith of Springfield, who ran for mayor in the April election, is starting a business as a special projects consultant.