On the eve of politicians’ final legal effort to stop citizens from deciding the size of their government, I’m determined, hopeful, and determined.
It’s astonishing that the West Seneca town board has gone to such lengths to thwart the public will; and insulting that they’ve used taxpayer funds to pay for their efforts. When a downsizing vote is finally taken, residents may view their delay and deny tactics, add them to our shrinking economy and growing tax rates, and vote for change.
From the inception of this effort – my government study; visits to our 25 towns, 16 villages, and 3 cities; proposal that they each eliminate 2 offices; and uncovering of a law that lets citizens decide – my goal has been to create a system that’s less costly, more effective, and more fair. My study revealed that local government burdens rather than boosts our community. It spends too much to pay 439 politicians, which leaves too little to serve the people.
Western New Yorkers deserve better.
Our principle of citizens’ right to petition has prevailed so far in two courts. Tomorrow, if the appeals court cites politicians’ hyper-technical objections to halt us, the fault and responsibility will be mine alone.
But our setback will be temporary. Everything that politicians do to silence citizens only serves to strengthen our cause. And when we finally restore people’s right to decide – and I promise that we shall in every town and village – that triumph will be shared by thousands of West Seneca and Western New York citizens who believe in our community, and possess the courage to change it.
October 30, 2008 at 5:21 pm |
Keep working Kevin…You are on the right track!
November 3, 2008 at 1:08 pm |
One great and very noble fight Kevin. You win even if it is symbolic. In March we can emphasize the unnecessary expense caused by the stubborn politicians.
The actions of the town politicos and the nasty current election campaigns emphasize the cost to us of incumbents who have remained in office for decades without any notable accomplishment.
Every turn of the economic screws from the bank meltdown just emphasizes how the redundant offices of the towns of Western New York cost the tax payers not just of the towns but also by handsome retirement and medical packages the taxpayers of the state. We cannot afford these luxuries.
I note some comments to various blogs that show people are increasingly aware of the incredible number of school boards in Erie and Niagara Counties and their terrible costs. I hope the current economic crunch will force some consolidation.
Have no fear you are on the right track and change is blowing on the wind.