I am proud to call Jonathan LaBonte my friend and mayor. From our conversations about policy, to his passion for Auburn’s heritage (as with his contributions to the effort to save the St. Louis parish bells), to his zeal for innovation, efficiency and accountability, I have seen how he honors Auburn’s past while leading toward the future.

Wisely, he has also said that “growing communities are those that grow in their diversity and their open, constructive engagement on public policy.” For his part, he has been willing to both engage in vigorous but constructive debate, while openly challenging others’ destructive comments.

Local politics has its fair share of candidates who can’t get past their petty personal feelings. But LaBonte’s top priority is to apply his knowledge and passion in fighting for Auburn.

I will vote for Jonathan LaBonte on Nov. 3 and I hope other Auburn residents will join me.

Michael Sargent, Auburn