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Path is defined as a route, course, or track along which something moves. A course of action, conduct, or procedure. The course or direction in which something moves.
Our village of Fredonia is on a path. It is one of direction and purpose. In years past, that was not the case.
Today is a new day, and securing our new water source is the path we are on. The way forward is not easy, but it is navigable. Our path has twists, turns, climbs, and drops. The bedrock of this trail is based on vision, planning and partnership. Be assured that we have all of that.
Sometimes that mountain peak or finish line seems elusive, distant, or maybe unreachable. However, intentional drive, resilience, focus and staying on course will make the difference in accomplishing the goal. This means keeping your eyes on the prize and continuing forward.
My life experiences have taught me well. I have hiked and climbed many mountains. I have raced many, many marathons. I know well the occasional pain and hurt, the struggle of dropping out and the temptation not to finish. However, it is helpful to recall why you started your endeavor.
What was your purpose and what was your benefit? Summitting a 12,000-foot peak in Southern California was my reward as I gazed over the high Sierra Mountains Range and kissed the alpine sky. Or, crossing the finish line of the Boston Marathon four separate times. Both reminded me that there was a price to pay (in training and hard work and effort). The rewards were there and I was so proud of my efforts and accomplishments.
As your village trustee, I have championed a challenging project for Fredonia and for all of its residents and businesses. It is about water. Water that is clean, reliable and safe to drink. I have engaged on this path for the past three years.
Similar to marathon training, my challenge required hard work, education, focus, drive and discipline. In my opinion, there is no substitute for these qualities. If you want to drive success for something, realize there will be costs. But staying the course and holding onto the path will ultimately reveal that glorious alpine skyline -- the sweet sense of completion after crossing the finish line in downtown Boston with 600,000 spectators cheering you on. Wow!
Our new water source interconnect project is moving forward. The project is right on schedule. Collaboration with our engineering partner LaBella, the North County Water District, and the county Department of Health reps helps provide momentum and thrust to continue on the current trajectory toward a finish line in two to three years. A critical element in any undertaking is patience. Very often, progress comes slowly. Resilience, endurance, faith and hope can come together to combat discouragement and fatigue. I speak from my own experiences.
As your elected official in Fredonia, I offer encouragement to our residents. Follow me and our partners on an exciting new path forward. We can leave the past behind and instead have vision and purpose for the future. I covet your support to help make this new water project a success in every way. The path is before us now. Please join me in trekking forward.
Paul Wandel is a Fredonia trustee.