Opinions in favor of extending the term of Supervisor
Below are comments in favor of extending the term of Supervisor. To view opinions against click here.
George Baum decided to take an objective look at reasons why this should be done and wrote the piece below. Directly beneath George's writings are short highlight videos we selected from the Public Forum.
COMMENTS IN THE AFFIRMATIVE by George Baum
The referendum to extend the term of the Supervisor from two years to four needs to be considered independently from one’s views of the current incumbent or the terms of candidates for lesser or greater office. The prime consideration should be what is the best policy for our town. The principle argument for the referendum as provided by the current Supervisor, Kathrine Doherty, is that the many issues that the Supervisor must handle, involve external agencies such as the county, state and even the national governments. We expect each elected supervisor to take office with an agenda. However, nothing gets done with a magic wand, there are contracts, embedded loyalties, endless meetings, forms, legal issues, lawsuits, and mountains of regulations. The expression “getting the ball rolling” does not state if the ball must roll downhill or uphill. So if we expect significant accomplishment we need to provide sufficient time.
To run for public office requires a major commitment of time and money. The “funny season” begins with planning for the primary in October and culminates with the election in November. Unless the campaign is self-financed, there is the need to raise funds followed by vigorous campaigning to reach an apathetic public. During this period, the candidate is walking on eggs so as not to offend any constituency, make more deals and promises, and avoid any aggressive action must be muted or face the charge of cynical grandstanding.
A four year term would not shield the supervisor from reproach. The Board continues it’s oversight function, public meetings continue to be held, budgets are presented. Unfortunately (perhaps) New York State constitution does not give the electorate the right of recall, referendum, or initiative. The topic would appear less political, if it did not take effect until after the term being voted on is served.
Finally research by Bill Noel, III has revealed that of the last twenty supervisors only three have not been reelected. I feel that this indicates an unnecessary waste of time and money for biannual elections.
Supervisor Kathy Doherty's remarks at 08/17/2009 Public Hearing:
The best remarks from the public in favor of the referendum came from Curtis Watkins:
Now that you heard opinions for it, take a minute to view opinions against by clicking here.
