For the past several days, I have been watching a small, white and black terrier dog run up and down South Third Street in Marion.

He doesn’t have a collar and is scared to death of people. I know the Marion Police Department has attempted to capture the dog — for his own sake — but has not been successful.

He appears to be searching for something or someone.

So, what is he looking for?

As I’ve watched him run back and forth, I think about this community and the decisions that lay ahead.

Marion residents will be voting for a mayor and city council members in April. Two people have filed for the mayor’s job and three for two council seats.

Whether we’re pleased or not with the folks who are willing to commit — or re-commit — to serving this community, we have to ask the question: Where are we headed?

What are our goals for 2010 and each year following?

Do we want to be a proactive community or reactive?

What can we do to make residents feel a part of this community and keep them here?

What can we do to keep businesses here? What can we do to bring in new businesses?

The big question is, are we the white and black terrier running up and down the street, searching for direction, and not accomplishing anything?

By the way, if anyone can catch the dog, it would be greatly appreciated. Those of us who have been watching this little fellow are concerned about his welfare and safety. Contact the police department if you have a way with animals and can safely apprehend him.

— susan berg