While we would like to start off the new year with a clean slate, it couldn't hurt to have a short list of what we would like to see for our city in 2010.

 

First, wouldn't it be nice if our Mayor retracted this statement:

 

"Citizens  are free to have general conversations with myself or anyone on the council, but they will not be conversations discussing the day to day administration of the city.  This is not and never has been the purpose of the mayor and council.  In the past, some councilors have felt it was appropriate to circumvent the system and attempt to resolve issues without going through the proper process.  This will no longer be happening.  Day to day issues or concerns should be directed to the city administrator, not the mayor or councilors.  The purpose of the mayor and council is to make policy for the city and direct city staff to carry out that policy.."

 

Instead, wouldn't it be nice if our Mayor encouraged people to contact their elected representative first before taking time from a busy staff?  A willing council member could meet with individuals and groups and listen to whatever concerns they may have and to then bring these concerns and possible solutions to the entire council for resolutions, and not bog down our City Administrator unnecessarily with less than important matters.

 

Wouldn't it be nice if there was more compassion for those Creswell residents who are struggling with one of the highest water rates in the state.  Maybe find a solution to refinance and cut unnecessary spending.

 

The mayor said in his infomercial," People should come to council meetings, they need to participate." 

 

Wouldn't it be nice if you could go to a council meeting and do just that "Participate." As it is, you can go to the meeting and they will give you three minutes to get up and speak.  Our mayor made it a point to say the council will not enter into a discussion with you.  To our way of thinking, that is not participating.  When we had Mayor Eddie and a subject was being discussed, an audience member could raise his/her hand and have a say regarding the subject.  For example, when this city administrator had the film crew show up at a meeting to give their presentation, there was NO chance for an audience member to say anything, they just did as they pleased and made a motion and passed it as per usual, without input from Creswell citizens.  It appears there is no incremental value with these new expensive infomercials.  Is that not a disservice to our citizens?

 

Wouldn't it  be nice, if before our mayor asks a councilor to resign or reprimand another in public or dismiss an airport commissioner, that he first sat down one on one, to see what these people had on their mind and why?  Would that not be the best way to manage people, by hearing them out and not dismiss or censure without a conversation?  Is it possible our mayor might learn something that may be a benefit to our city?  If not, and a reprimand is in order, why not do that properly in an executive session?

 

Most importantly, wouldn't it be a good thing for our mayor to look close at his motives before taking action and ask himself, "Am I misusing my trusted position."

 

With these few Principles we can only hope and wish to have a fresh start for the New Year.  Happy New Year to All