For decades I have been an observer of the local antics, attempting to stay out
of such matters and focus of advocating for what is in the best interests of
the City. My efforts resulted in my becoming a 'political prisoner' in the most
literal sense.
Allow me to share my observations....
The current system of 5 Council Members being elected simultaneously has been
the downfall of Asbury Park. It has led to 2 typical scenarios.
- When the majority is replaced - there is no continuity of policy and
transferable knowledge base to keep the City stable.
- When the Majority stays in office - there is stagnation and a lack of new
ideas to stimulate progress and innovation.
Clearly the solution would be to stagger terms and have term limits which would
promote both continuity and new ideas. The current system is more a popularity
contest of special interest groups instead of a vetting of City management
credentials among the candidates.
(has anyone ever seem the current Council Members Resumes?)
Take note that the current power base had promised to do just that when first
coming to power in 2000 - Curious how once in power that campaign issue seems
to have been forgotten about. Holding power seems to overshadowed doing what is
best for the City.
Ideally the current form of Government should be changed to that of the
Commission Form of Government where each elected member is the head of a
department:
1. Department of Public Affairs
2. Department of Public Safety
3. Department of Public Works
4. Department of Parks and Public Property
5. Department of Revenue and Finance
Candidates would be elected based upon their resumes and capabilities instead
of popularity and get busy with fixing what is wrong with Asbury Park. The law
allows the appointment of an overall Administrator but each elected official
would be held accountable for his/her area of responsibility.
In a City such as Asbury park where most problems are one of basic management
and City services this form of government would be particularly useful. If
there is lack of performance, the next election will make a change.
I hope this all gives pause for thought.
Werner
City Historian Emeritus
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