edgewatertalkingstick.myfreeforum.org

Devon Barclay · Joined: 28 Dec 2007 Posts: 108 Location: Ingalls Street

Since it's becoming a hot topic elsewhere, I figured I'd bring it over here to the Charter forum.

I think some good points have been raised about this change to a new form of government. With a deadlocked Council, and expensive studies being conducted monthly, how do we know that hiring an expensive new City Manager will move our little city closer to anything other than bankruptcy?

That's exactly where I was when I ran for this Commission. And exactly the reason I was in favour of getting a full-time, paid mayor instead. I WAS WRONG.

HERE'S WHY what we're doing is much, much better.

The biggest problem we've faced here is incontinuity - every couple of years, we get new leaders, new ideas, and new studies. Meanwhile, nothing gets done. The new charter addresses this in several ways:

First, all of our Councilpeople will be elected for four-year terms, so they've got more time to become seasoned and learn the inner workings of the big issues before their spot is opened up for election (or re-election).

Second, under the new Charter, the president of Council will be the Mayor - a figure who doesn't regularly vote at Council, but can set the agenda, will work with the boards and commissions, and who CAN cast the tie-breaking vote when Council is deadlocked, or use the veto to get negotiations happening. That person will serve a two-year term, so be much more directly the people's voice at Council. That person can, as they say, "keep them honest." (Some of you know the ACTUAL campaign slogan I would LOVE to substitute here).

Finally, Council and Mayor will perform an administrative role ONLY by directing the Manager - who will be a longer term figure, by other cities' experience, than any elected leader. He'll give stability, in the sense that he'll keep projects moving along, and he'll know enough about planning, revenues, and what works that we won't need so many studies - instead, he'll be able to offer suggestions, gather input, and move things forward. Over the years, if he's good, Council will trust his advice. If he's bad, he can be fired and replaced with someone better.

Meanwhile, our politicians can do what they're supposed to do - politick. Work with the ideas. But they'll have some stable ground, and some solid numbers, facts, and research to stand on.

I think this is probably good for everyone.

Leanna Hale · Joined: 20 Feb 2008 Posts: 24

Hi folks!
Just a neighborly request that you only vote once so we can get an accurate read from this small poll. Also if anyone has questions, comments, concerns, please put them out there so they can be addressed.
Thanks-
Leanna

Voter · Guest

I believe only registered posters can vote and only once by design.

Leanna Hale · Joined: 20 Feb 2008 Posts: 24

Great- thanks- I am new at this TS thing!

Guest · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 12:17 pm Post subject: Your feedback is appreciated

If you would like to participate in this poll, feel free to register a Username and join in. Registering is easy and your feedback is much appreciated.
Thank you.

The Charter · Guest

The charter commission’s website isn’t posting the proposed charter but the city’s web site is.

http://www.edgewaterco.com/news_events/prochart331.pdf

Devon Barclay · Joined: 28 Dec 2007 Posts: 108 Location: Ingalls Street

I've been administering the website, and I guess got behind. With apologies, both sites are current now.