Darlene Atkin is running for mayor of Lakeside, competing with Ed Gowan and Orville Nelson. Thursday’s newspaper inadvertently omitted her from a story about mayoral candidates. Here’s the information about Atkin:

How long in Lakeside? 9 years

How old are you? 73

Political experience? Seven years as secretary/treasurer on the rural fire board of directors.

Why are you running? “I want the money spent, used to benefit the majority of the residents of .Lakeside and not just a selected few. Our city has residents with expertises that will help direct this city (with no property tax base) to a brighter future. Our government needs to open up opportunities for these individuals to come forward. We have recently seen this type of cooperation in our Harmony Community Garden.”

What is the most important issue? Atkin believes the lack of any reserve funds for any unexpected financial crises is the most pressing issue. Those losses include less revenue from bed, gasoline taxes and potentially building permits if Measure 63 passes. The council will need to revisit the budget and adjust accordingly.

How has the council performed since the recall two years ago? Atkin feels the council has operated with a constant turnover of members and has had trouble addressing problems, though the attitude has become more cooperative. She feels Lakeside needs a diversified group of people with fresh ideas for a better future.

How would you foster open government? “Accept any complaint as an opportunity to solve or help resolve the complaint, without blaming others or denying any fault.”