I apologize for my absence. With working full time and taking a full load of college courses (12 credits) there is little time to read and post on blogs. I figured I wouldn't be missed much anyway.
On April 7th, Oshkosh has a real opportunity to make a change in leadership with both the Council and School Board. There is no doubt that the common thoughts around town are on the referendum. With good reason, it is ~$24million of our money being asked for.
Beyond the referendum, there are a few issues that the city is facing. We have several that have been brought up during various forums and some more by the ONW. There is no doubt who the ONW is supporting in this election for Mayor. Not because it is the right choice, but because they don't care for the opposition. The ONW wrote an editorial endorsing Tower for Mayor. That is fine, we all expected it. But did they really need to do the follow up this week? Was it really necessary or did they just want to twist the knife that they plunged in last week? Either way, I think that there is some clearing up that needs to take place.
The ONW pointed out what a wonderful thing was being done with the TIF in the South Shore Redevelopment area. Although I do agree that development is wonderful, was a TIF really necessary there? Oshkosh has set a precedence on granting TIF's to the point that I don't think commercial development will be done without them anymore.
The ONW is quick to point out how saying NO is horrible. Well, do we really need more TIF's? Better yet, how did the City Management and Council let those buildings get so bad that they needed to be torn down? Perhaps we should focus more on keeping our businesses in Oshkosh and then it would not be necessary to worry about replacing what was left behind when they move or leave.
These are just a few thoughts as Tuesday approaches. I must remind voters that staying at home should not be an option. There was an unbelievable turnout for the Presidential election which in the big picture means nothing to the city. Remember, the Spring election has far greater impact on you than any Presidential election. The folks that are elected make the decisions locally, not the President. Remember that next Tuesday when you think that "it doesn't make a difference, why bother?".
It really does make a difference. Take the time. VOTE on April 7th.
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4 comments:
Great post Kent.
We FINALLY have a chance to get rid of the dead wood in this city. Electing Esslinger is a necessity! Then, a vote for Poeschl, Hinz, Palmeri, or O'Day is also essential.
Let's finally take our city back from the Chamber of bumblers.
The barbarians are knocking on the gate. If elected, the voters will reap what they sow.
This election is important but not more important than any presidential election as you suggest.
If it is, however, than two editorials on the Mayor's race seems appropriate considering the importance you put on local elections.
[Edited for publication, text replaced by link to post]
Below are endorsements from the BAIN BLOG for the spring election.
http://bain-blog.blogspot.com/2009/04/election-endorsements.html
This is one of the most important spring elections Oshkosh has had since I have been a member of this community (if not the most important). I believe Oshkosh has come to a proverbial fork in the road and we, the citizens, must now choose the future direction of our city.
Vote on April 7th but PLease don't vote from any of these candidates.
These candidates will only insure OShkosh remains in the hands of the good ole boys network!
Apr 3, 2009 2:42:00 PM
Anonymous-
It's good to know at least one person is still reading my blog. :)
-Bryan
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