To say last night’s budget meeting at council was interesting, would be an understatement. There were times of tension, confusion, impatience, drama, grandstanding and correction.
Mayor Bill Mauro took the time to call into the show today with a really great recap of what happened last night and what we need to be aware of in the coming days. Have a listen below.
Norm Gale and his staff in administration at City Hall showed their value last night. There is no question how hard these people work to bring the facts to council. What impresses me most is how Mr. Gale handles the responses to the challenges from council by crafting every word carefully to make very clear points. Last night, he knocked it out of the park when challenged with the task of cutting the budget even more than they have and bringing the increase down to 1.75% from 3.6%. His response was powerful and simple. Be careful what you wish for. “If this is what council wants us to do, we will start tomorrow morning”. That came with warning. Be prepared for the fall out because things are going to be cut. Their job is dictated by councilors. Its what they do day in and day out. They are paid to serve. And in my opinion, they are champions at what they do, and Mr. Gale’s firm grip on what’s right, defending his team, and keeping the city running the best he can needs to be recognized more.
It was a powerful meeting last night. Thursday night is going to be really important to watch. It affects how much money you and i have left over every month, it affects our lifestyles, where we drive, what we enjoy and what we pay for it all. It’s worth watching. If you’re really lucky, you’ll even get a 5 min Tai Chi break in the middle of the meeting with Councilor You. The visuals of councillors (and Mr Gale 😉 ) dancing around chambers is quite inspiring. Sorta……
Just my two cents…
~John