El Paso Mayor John Cook makes short list for world mayor prize

El Paso Mayor John Cook has made the short list to be recognized as the best mayor in the world.

Cook is one of six mayors in North America and one of 25 worldwide in contention to be named the 2012 World Mayor, to be awarded in December.

Cook was unaware earlier this year that several people had nominated him for the prize.

The award is given by the London-based City Mayors Foundation, an international think tank "to promote strong and prosperous cities as well as good local government," the organization's website says. "Established in 2003, City Mayors encourages city leaders from across the world to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to long-standing urban problems such as housing, transport, education and employment."

The award is intended to recognize mayors for their achievements. There is no cash award, but the winner's city will get a sculpture commemorating the honor.

Last year, Cook cast the tie-breaking vote to restore health benefits to gay and unmarried partners of city employees after voters passed a ballot initiative ending the benefits in November 2010.

Thousands signed petitions demanding Cook's recall in a drive that now appears to be dead. People who admire the mayor's stance figure prominently in the Cook's nomination to be World Mayor. Of the 22 who wrote in support of Cook, 13 cited his stance

in the benefits fight. "He has stood firmly for what is right in the face of homophobes and bigots," says one letter, written by Billie J.H., that is posted on the City Mayors Foundation website.

The group also posted a note from an El Pasoan who believed Cook should not be nominated.

I "am outraged because this mayor overturned a vote by the people of El Paso," Mildred G. wrote. "We have a low voter output and now many people are saying there is no point in voting if the mayor can overturn our vote."

Cook couldn't be reached for this story.

To vote for or comment on Cook, go to http://www.worldmayor.com/contest_2012/word-mayor-nominations-2012.html.

Marty Schladen may be reached at mschladen@elpasotimes.com; 546-6127.

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