The recent passage of Cuyahoga County Issue 6 has had me brain storming for a week. Why did Cuyahoga County decide to go to a Charter government instead of the commissioner based leadership they have had for decades? In short, the commissioners had become corrupt and ineffective. I wont go as far as to to say our commissioners are corrupt, but I will say that they are more concerned with their own political careers than making the right decisions for Wayne County, no matter how hard they may be.
Currently there are only 2 charter counties in the State of Ohio. Summit County which adopted their charter in 1979, and Cuyahoga County which just adopted theirs on Nov, 3 2009. Charters are autorized by Article 10 of the Ohio Constitution
What are the differences between a charter government and what we have now?
A charter government would be lead by a single elected county executive instead of a board of 3 commissioners. This would make leadership more efficient, more accountable and less political, allowing better, more effective focus on important issues such as economic development, health and human services. This will establish a single leader to collaborate with all cities and villages in our county.
A county executive would only have administrative powers. Much like a city mayor does. Legislative powers woud be held by a 16 member, part-time council. I would propose that each township has one representative to serve on the council. This would provide a separation of powers, checks and balances encourage public debate on imortant issues. It would provide more opportunity for our communities to be represented. The council would hold legislative power to initiate legislation if needed, approve budgets and serve as a financial watch dog. It would also bring the county's elected leadership closer to the residents for better democracy.
For now, this is just an idea. I would like to hear your opinions on this matter. I for one feel we have had enough of out of touch, and untouchable leadership that's only check is "Because we said so".
I will continue to look into this matter, and would like to form a committee to meet and discuss this. If there is enough interest I would like to see petitions passed and possibly get this issue on the ballot.
Feel free to post with your ideas and opinions.
Yours,
-Joe Nobody
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Good idea but I can assure you if your petition does not have the exact wording necessary to get on the ballot the regime will toss it back legally to you to start over again. Of course you can get the recent Cleveland copy and start from there. Good Luck.
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