I believe the time for Uni-Gov has finally come to NW Indiana. The possibility of the coming tax caps has all levels of local government up in arms about the cuts they will be forced to make.
If you listen to them it sounds like the end of times is near for anyone living in Hammond, Whiting, East Chicago or Gary. Politicians at all levels are blaring about how the prospect of cuts will put every citizen at risk to their safety and well being.
Instead our leaders should be exploring ways to cut government from the top down. I have been against it in the past because quite frankly I have had trouble putting the responsibility in the hands of the corruption of the County. But it is time to explore how to best eliminate many levels of government and at the same time cause reform at the county level.
It has worked well in Indianapolis, although Indy takes up much of Marion County. But just think of the potential for savings if we eliminate Mayors, City councils, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Department Heads and a whole group of this board and that board from the books. The shift would take away the many patronage jobs that are duplicated thru the county and force those to make do with less.
It would also have the added effect of shifting the visibility to those elected officials at the county level. They would suddenly have to earn our votes by producing for us.
It sounds like it might be time for serious consideration ...... especially if things are as dire as they say.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
S-L-U-M-L-O-R-D!
We have been hearing about this problem for quite some time and enough is finally enough!
Recently a police raid uncovered what was said to be 2000 baggies of crack cocaine in one of the most notorious parts of town for cut-ups. Places where landlords divide up the property (usually beyond what is allowed by code) into as many units as possible to maximize their income. Some are legal, but often many are illegal and contain code violations which put their residents in harms way.
I know the current administration has stated that it is going to make illegal rentals a priority, but it is time for the City Council to help make them stick by raising the fines for illegal rentals and driving those who have them out of business.
We need to attack the problem with a rising pyramid of fines and penalties. First violation should be a small fine and a short amount of time to fix the situation, Second a $10,000 fine, 3rd a $50,000 fine. The City should actively seek to put a lean on these properties and take control of them if necessary.
A good offense is always a good defense. By going on the offense these slumlords would be forced to fix the problems, sell or force losing their investments.
It is time to do something about it ....... NOW!
Recently a police raid uncovered what was said to be 2000 baggies of crack cocaine in one of the most notorious parts of town for cut-ups. Places where landlords divide up the property (usually beyond what is allowed by code) into as many units as possible to maximize their income. Some are legal, but often many are illegal and contain code violations which put their residents in harms way.
I know the current administration has stated that it is going to make illegal rentals a priority, but it is time for the City Council to help make them stick by raising the fines for illegal rentals and driving those who have them out of business.
We need to attack the problem with a rising pyramid of fines and penalties. First violation should be a small fine and a short amount of time to fix the situation, Second a $10,000 fine, 3rd a $50,000 fine. The City should actively seek to put a lean on these properties and take control of them if necessary.
A good offense is always a good defense. By going on the offense these slumlords would be forced to fix the problems, sell or force losing their investments.
It is time to do something about it ....... NOW!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Times Message Board controlling discussions!
Recently the Times management has chosen to upset the apple cart. Choosing to ban posters and delete threads without explanation.
The question is who is behind the pulling of these threads? Is it external pressure from advertisers? Political pull being used? Or just the Times trying to limit and control editorial content?
The board has been a wild place on and off at different times before without control. Suddenly very pertinent topics are being yanked mid discussion. Topics that are very vital to the long term future of NW Indiana and Hammond. Topics that are very worthy of discussion among very different view points.
Enquiring minds want to know? What are your motives or reasoning Times?
The question is who is behind the pulling of these threads? Is it external pressure from advertisers? Political pull being used? Or just the Times trying to limit and control editorial content?
The board has been a wild place on and off at different times before without control. Suddenly very pertinent topics are being yanked mid discussion. Topics that are very vital to the long term future of NW Indiana and Hammond. Topics that are very worthy of discussion among very different view points.
Enquiring minds want to know? What are your motives or reasoning Times?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)