When Mayor Stella Welsh wears a dark blue suit to a City Council meeting, it probably means there's a controversial item on the agenda.
"I'll admit, when certain issues come up, I wear a navy blue suit," she said at the Women in Leadership luncheon Tuesday at the Manor House.The Orem mayor, along with fellow mayors Marie Huff of Spanish Fork and Delora Bertelson of Springville, spoke to the group about the rewards and unique costs of public service for women.
All three emphasized the need for women in politics and said women bring exceptional skills to public office.
The mayors agreed that women need to put their good ideas to work with others professionally.
"We need to get rid of the stereotype," said Bertelson.
Huff brought along tiny jars of jam, illustrating her belief that someone serving the public is "always in a jam."
"That's exactly what politics is," joked Huff. "You're in a jam constantly because there are some things you cannot do that people want you to do or you may promise something prevented by an ordinance."
The 80-year-old Huff said she didn't get into politics earlier because she "didn't associate with those people."
Welsh said it was a natural progression for her into politics since she was always the one others called about a problem or to serve in civic organizations or to run a campaign to get something done.
"I was always involved in school," said Welsh. "I was always interested in what was going on. You know, fools rush in."
Bertelson said campaigning for local office is cheaper than running for state or national office and, she believes, more effective in the long run.
"My first campaign cost me $87," she said, "but I burned a lot of midnight oil, painting my own signs, etc."
All three mayors said the challenges come from people who don't understand the role of city government and expect them to solve problems with dogs, school districts, even irrigation.
Bertelson said it can be frustrating when a situation requires the city official to remain silent in order to protect the privacy of others.
"You can't defend yourself or divulge information."
Bertelson said lack of funds is always a problem for cities. "People's wants always outstrip the money."
Huff said there are some things a mayor simply cannot do and often citizens misunderstand those limitations as a lack of caring.
"I hate to say this, but it's usually the senior citizens you can't convince," said Huff.
Bertelson said women need to broaden their outlook and realize "there is life after housework."
"You cannot afford NOT to be involved in your community. What will count in the family is whether or not your community is providing for your family," she said.