Enough.
Enough of political divisions that leave neighbors frustrated and City Hall increasingly disconnected from the people it serves.
Enough of debates over growth that have become so polarized we're no longer asking the most important question: How do we grow responsibly while creating opportunity for the next generation?
Enough of campaign-style attacks replacing thoughtful conversations about the future of our community.
We've had enough of predetermined 3/2 outcomes imposed on our community, especially when they put our environment at risk through massive AI data centers and the annexation of 1,700 acres for unchecked development. We've had enough of excuses for economic stagnation when it comes to creating good-paying jobs, and enough of leadership that is out of touch with the everyday reality of rising costs and shrinking affordability.
But "enough" isn't really the message I want to leave you with. It's simply where we begin, because now: It’s time.
It's time to restore a different kind of leadership at City Hall.
It's time for leaders who will protect what makes our community special while building an economy that works for everyone.
It's time to remember that public service is about bringing people together, not driving them further apart. The best ideas don't belong to one political party or one side of the dais. They come from leaders who are willing to listen, ask questions and work together even when they disagree.
It's time to move beyond the false choice between growth and preservation. Tallahassee can protect the neighborhoods, parks and natural beauty that make our community special while also creating an economy that gives our young people a reason to stay, raise a family and build a career here.
It's time to think bigger than the next controversial vote.
What clean industries should we be recruiting? How do we prepare for the jobs of tomorrow instead of relitigating the battles of yesterday? Those are the conversations I want us to have.
Our community has all the ingredients for an extraordinary future: two world-class universities and a powerful state college; Lively Technical college developing the trades; and legendary natural resources with unmatched natural beauty; and the benefits of being the capital city of a thriving state. What has been missing is a common vision for how we build that future together.
I believe we can find that vision again.
We can replace division with collaboration. We can debate ideas without questioning one another's motives. And we can stop letting yesterday's disagreements define tomorrow's possibilities.
Enough brought us to this moment.
Now it's time -- to come together, look ahead, and build the Tallahassee our children and grandchildren deserve.
It’s time.
Tom Derzypolski is a small business owner, community volunteer and candidate for City Commission – Seat 3
Originally published in the Tallahassee Democrat, August 7, 2026.