Communication is Best in Muncipal Decision Making

By Arthur Zaczkiewicz

Mayor James Sottile said — according to the Daily Freeman in this article — that he was working with a private firm to test a new curbside recycling operation. Sounds great, but it would be best if the mayor had informed other lawmakers of his decision.

Alderman Tom Hoffay was quoted in the story saying, “All of a sudden we are taking a city service and fundamentally altering it, and no one has the information.” Right on, Tom. Considering a change in how a city service functions should not the decision of a single person. A decision such as this should include several policymakers as well as the public.

A small task force should have been formed to conduct a brief SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis on the venture. This would insure a more thoughtful process, and address concerns over labor, funding, and political implications — especially in regard to the local union that represents the DPW workers.

Any government — small or big — can always benefit from clear communications and greater transparency.

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