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In the worst economy in memory, the city of Bowie is sitting pretty.

Unlike other local governments, Bowie has not had to endure — or even seriously contemplate — such cost-cutting measures as layoffs, furloughs or painful cuts in services, and has managed to adhere to its policy of keeping at least 25 percent of its total yearly expenditures in reserve. As of July 2008, the last audited balance of reserves was at $21.9 million. However, state and county officials are hinting at more cuts to municipalities, and strong leaders need to be in place should painful budget decisions need to be made in Bowie.

It is primarily for these reasons — Bowie's sound bank account combined with its need for experience in dealing with what might be coming down the road — that voters should support the incumbents, who have helped the city thrive despite the down economy, in the three contested city elections Nov. 3.

Mayor G. Frederick Robinson, a former Prince George's County police officer, has successfully guided Bowie during his 11-year tenure. While Robinson was at the helm, the city's first police department was launched, and he has been a strong presence on state and county issues affecting Bowie. His challenger, Samuel Graham, a retired steel worker who is president of the Bowie Boys and Girls club, believes the city has done a poor job managing spending — citing the new City Hall as an example of waste — but the strong city services and reserves show otherwise.

In the at-large race, Anthony Kennedy is challenging incumbents Dennis Brady, an electrical engineer, and Geraldine Valentino-Smith, a stay-at-home mother and former attorney. The three candidates are vying for two at large seats.

Kennedy, who operates a nonprofit organization that mentors students, has good ideas for keeping city youths on a positive track, but his platform focuses too narrowly on educational programs and county relationships.

The at-large incumbents have proved to be effective legislators who understand the central issues facing Bowie and deserve re-election.

In District 2, incumbent Diane Polangin, a tax preparation specialist, has a firmer grasp on the overall issues facing Bowie than her challenger, Piero "Pete" Mellits, an engineer and former volunteer fire chief. Mellits has a solid grasp on public safety issues but is not as strong on other government topics.

Polangin's experience, her efforts to preserve city services and her strong constituent service make her the best candidate for District 2.

Experience matters.