Monday, January 05, 2009

Tonight: Council greets a new year with a change of command.

The agenda for tonight’s inaugural city council meeting of 2009 isn’t yet available on-line, but no matter … never mind.

We know that a new council president will be selected, and sources indicate that the Wizard of Westside is the only serious candidate to replace outgoing president Jeff Gahan. Folks, I’ve got 50 clams riding on this one, although don’t ask me to reveal my pick. Just remember: It's all about the money, assuming you know how to count.

And, there is ongoing suspense as we await Mayor England’s reactivation from the injured reserve list, and his much anticipated ordinance enforcement strategy, which will be debuted before the council at some point soon -- perhaps tonight, perhaps not.

Meanwhile, the Tribune editorial team has awarded a “jeer” to the city’s legislative body:

JEERS .... to the New Albany City Council for continuing its reactionary tradition in 2008. Questionable decisions are a part of any elected body. We don’t expect to agree with every action — but take action. Our biggest disappointment with the council is its inability to make substantive change to help its residents. Decisions consistently appear to be made with little to no long-term vision and are mainly reactions to “fires” or the policing of nickels and dimes. The leadership is lacking and the creative solutions are next to nonexistent. For example, council members unanimously voted to fine business owners for selling novelty lighters, yet they begrudgingly voted against legally redistricting because it would impact their elected positions. So much for putting the city’s best interests first.

Huzzah!

Speaking of putting one’s own interests first, let’s sauté the bologna, ice the Coffey and celebrate the probable ascension of the first district's guardian angel to the president’s chair with a ritualistic nuzzling of the cherished gavel and this piece from the NAC archives, originally published back in 2005.

City Councilman Cappuccino speaks with NA Confidential.

See you tonight.

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