Elyria government failing to deliver

During Elyria’s recurring budget and operations issues, a pattern of petty to malevolent reactions dominate the opportunities for progress. The hallmark styling of the Safety Service Department has been intentional, pride-filled, and wantonly boastful. It may be argued that the wearisome responses are the products of fear and an executive brain drain that has led to classic examples of “over-promising and underdelivering.”

Where are all the grand ideas presented by the administration in its 30-page governing manifesto? Citizens got the short end of that proposal. Short on structure, short on creativity, and short on deliverables, but long on attitude and victimization.

Now that the celebration tour is almost over, the real business of governing can become a priority. Stability and solvency are the best way to honor our founders. Delays have possibly broadened the problems and shortened the time to develop best-practice solutions. Should citizens, including much of council, continue to be informed past due? The issues may not be advantageous, but is it best practice to operate in a vacuum?

Are questions or shared outcomes the real objects of our superheroes’ wrath, while deflecting responsibility whenever possible? The budget and finance problems are good examples.

The distance between preparation and success is achievement. Has the city provided more meaningful opportunities or improved services? Is the city better off? Or must we continue to focus on ceremonial fireworks, the seasonal joy of farmers markets, or the overreaching pursuit of decorative fountains? The citizens are not fooled! Transparency remains a fleeting illusion.

Marcus Madison Ward 5 councilman

City of Elyria