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Two years ago, Trudy Wade challenged and defeated an entrenched incumbent for the District 5 City Council seat. This time, her opponent is a political newcomer.

Last time around, issues concerning constituent service, Police Department unrest and how best to deal with gang activity in southwest Greensboro clearly separated the candidates. The result was a vigorous, hard-fought battle.

In this campaign, on the issues, Wade and Art Boyett are pretty much on the same page, calling for an increased emphasis on economic development and a fair shake for District 5 residents in getting city services.

Wade, 58, a Jamestown veterinarian and one-time Guilford County commissioner, was instrumental in the sacking of former City Manager Mitchell Johnson. And she continues to press for transparency in how the city deals with the legal fallout from the resignation of ex-police Chief David Wray.

For the most part, Wade has delivered on her previous campaign promises. She takes credit for more police patrols on High Point Road, lowering neighborhood speed limits and upgrading street lighting in her district.

She also successfully lobbied the council to keep a lid on citywide water rates in the current budget.

Boyett, 67, is a retired college accounting instructor who describes himself as a recent transplant to the city. Now that he has the time, he's decided to run for elective office.

He calls for openness, accountability and civility in city government and more efficient delivery of services. The city, he adds, also should undertake an energy audit of its buildings and use more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Wade's top priority is making Greensboro more business-friendly. One way to do that, she said, is taking a closer look at business-related ordinances and abolishing outdated ones.

For taxpayers, Wade sees possible savings by merging some county and city departments. Doing so also would better serve the business community, she contends.

Experience separates the candidates. Wade has an extensive record of public service, including serving as chairwoman of the Guilford County Board of Health. She's served as well on the Board of Commissioners and City Council for a total of seven years.

While Boyett has an impressive academic resume, since moving here his civic activities have centered around participating in community theater.

Rather than setting his sights on the City Council, a better choice might have been first volunteering for a city board or commission.

Wade takes pride in being a fact-gatherer who raises questions. But doing it more tactfully might help dispel the perception of City Council discord.

That said, her persistence and commitment to constituents make her the clear choice in District 5.