As of this writing, 6 folks have signed up to run for the 3 available seats on our City Clowncil – that nominally elected, predictably dysfunctional, body of local mischief-makers. In the interests of self-preservation, Petaluma needs some kind of oath that would be required for all politicians upon their swearing-in. I propose that we borrow from Galen, the Greek physician, and have it begin: “First, do no harm…” The effort required of the elected to discern the potential harm in any proposed legislation would pretty much take up all of the council’s thus time sparing the city the consequences – both intended and unintended – of their whims, vendettas and secret agendas.