Bright Spots: They didn't win, but they had some winning ideas
Syracuse Post-Standard Editorial
November 25th, 2007
County Executive-elect Joanie Mahoney has been charged with recommending ways to improve county government. But Mahoney shouldn't rely on the team to come with all the strategies for "the fresh start" she has promised. In fact, several unsuccessful candidates in the November election had ideas that are worth of consideration by Mahoney and other local officials.
They include:
Municipal power
Las year, nearly 300 people showed up on a February weeknight to talk about the possibility of public power in the city of Syracuse. The idea of municipally provided power has been most promoted by Howie Hawkins, who ran for councilor-at-large in Syracuse. Kurt Schmeling, who ran for 1st District councilor, also has been a big proponent of public power, which could result in cheaper electric bills. The Common Council still is studying the issue.
Municipal bank
Another idea inspired by Hawkins and his Green Party. A city-owned bank (or it could be jointly owned with the county) could be started with redirected funds from incentives given to businesses. Its purpose would be do develop, invest, and support community-owned businesses.
Community hiring hall/Green tech training center
Hawkins and the Green Party propose increasing hiring goals for people of color and city residents for city jobs and contracts. A multi-purpose community hiring hall could be used as a placement center for hiring these groups. It would also provide training and job counseling. It could include a green tech training center to train workers in green technologies officials say will emerge locally.
Entrepreneurial grants/internships
Much has been said about "the brain drain" - young people moving to more inviting, prosperous places. Karen Hanford, who ran for the 6th District in the Onondaga County Legislature, proposes that entrepreneurial grants be given to college students in Onondaga County that would help them establish local businesses. She also would use economic development dollars for paid internship and mentorship programs.
Fill-as-you-consolidate
Several candidates supported government consolidation, but Deb Moynihan's idea is to hold off on filling county positions lost through attrition until a shared-services model is considered for the job.
Ethnic fare
The city's North Side has undergone a cultural transformation and has become the main residence area for the Southeast Asian community and people from African nations. Al Julian, who ran for the 1st Common Council District, proposes a streetscape project like Little Italy that celebrates the ethnic flare of the people who dominate the neighborhood.
More frequent audits
Richard Brickwedde, who ran for county comptroller, contends county agencies should be audited more frequently. He is right. An audit that revealed the county Parks and Recreation Department had failed to be reimbursed about $500,000 demonstrates why such audits are critical.
Open government
Onondaga County legislature meetings should be held in high schools - with students helping to set up the meetings - as a way of getting young people involved in government, says Karen Hanford.