I couldn't have said this better. If only everyone
thought like you, we might get things done. I pass by
the "new" Senior Center and wonder why it's taken so long,
parking and why I may never visit it. Why certain groups are favored
and why the school system fails our kids.
--- In AsburyPark@yahoogroups.com, "wernerapnj" <wernerapnj@...> wrote:
>
> 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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