It's not the form of government, stupid!

It is not the form of government that is the problem with our city. That is too simple. And because it is simple, officeholders use it to deflect criticism of their inability to come up with solutions and strategic plans for resolving our numerous public policy issues.

One strategy that politicians use is "deflection". If the voters are "turning up the heat" and wanting solutions to Huntington's problems, deflect attention away from those issues by blaming everything on the form of government. I don't fall for it! The mayor and council members asked for the jobs ... now do them! Communication between this council, the mayor and Huntington's citizens is non-existent.

I suggest the mayor and council accept their responsibilities and begin discussing short and long-term solutions to: solid waste disposal; the self-insured employee health insurance program; dilapidated and fire-damaged houses and structures; modification to the long-term financing of pension plans; enforcement of all existing city ordinances (we have ordinances for every possible infraction, but no enforcement); home rule and a modification to the tax laws to encourage an influx of new businesses; drugs and crime .... shall I go on?

I want to hear candidates speak to those issues! It's not our form of government that is the problem. The problem is a lack of vision, strategic planning, consensus-building and a laissez-faire attitude on the part of all of our public officials.

Should we have a vote on whether or not the City Charter should be changed? No! Just elect citizens who dare to be great!

So, what do the rest of you think?