By Jim Hunt for the News & Journal
Over the years, I’ve often been asked, “What does a Mayor do?” While I’ve explained
the usual routines—chairing meetings, cutting ribbons, and overseeing city
operations—I know these tasks only scratch the surface of what it means to lead a
community.
This week, I received a call from Mayor Lora Michael of Mannington, West Virginia. She
was preparing to speak to a group of grade school students about the West Virginia
Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor” contest. This annual event invites students to write
essays imagining what they would do as mayor of their town. Mayor Michael shared that
she was a bit nervous about standing in front of a room full of curious young minds and
wanted to be fully prepared.
She also asked if I could share some background on the late Mayor Tom Esposito of
Logan, West Virginia, for whom the contest is named. Her question brought a smile to
my face as I reflected on my good friend Tom Esposito, a man whose legacy still
inspires.
Tom served as President of the West Virginia Municipal League during a particularly
challenging time. His likable personality and unwavering commitment to fairness helped
unify the League and laid a foundation for its continued strength. Tom’s dedication to
public service and his love for his community made him a beloved figure among his
peers, friends, and family. When he passed away in 2021 after a courageous battle with
cancer, the state lost one of its finest leaders. The contest named in his honor is a
testament to his enduring influence.
I’ve always believed that engaging with young people should be a top priority for local
elected officials. In a time when politics feels so divided, fostering an early connection
between youth and government can plant the seeds for a more unified and engaged
future.
During my time as Mayor of Clarksburg, I vividly remember visiting classrooms filled
with energetic students who peppered me with questions. Some wanted to know how to
become a police officer or firefighter. Others asked if I had the power to call off school
during snowstorms (I didn’t!). A few boldly declared their future plans to run for City
Council.
Never underestimate the impact these interactions can have on young people. In my
podcast interviews with city officials, I often ask what inspired them to enter public
service. Nearly every time, they mention a school visit, a presentation, or participation in
programs like “Youth in Government Day.” When people feel connected to their
government, they see themselves as part of the solution rather than part of the problem.
At a recent event, a young woman approached me and asked if I remembered her. She
explained that years ago, as a member of Notre Dame High School’s Key Club, she
attended a Kiwanis Club meeting where we took a photo with Hugh O’Brian, the founder
of a youth leadership program. That small moment had left a lasting impression on her.
I doubt Mayor Tom Esposito ever imagined that his dedication to public service would
continue inspiring young people long after his passing. Yet, through the “Thomas
Esposito If I Were Mayor” contest, his legacy lives on. Who knows? One of this year’s
contestants might become a future leader, helping to build stronger communities.
As leaders, we should never discount the small actions we take that ripple through time.
They have the power to inspire and create a better world.