Local governments need to increase effectiveness

By Letter to the Editor on June 2, 2021.

Editor:
Alvin W. Shier’s letter of May 27 picks up where my letter of May 22 left off. There are fundamental weaknesses in the way governments are set up to serve the public’s needs.
Some of these weaknesses are “baked in” while others are piled onto the model through our expectations, misperceptions and assumptions.
Municipalities play an essential role in service delivery. It is also where the need for being realistic and practical is most critical.
Here’s a brief list of areas where local governments can change to increase effectiveness and, in the process, acquire more legitimacy:
1). Don’t try be all things to all people. Many matters are beyond local control such as the economy, welfare, criminal law, affordable housing and many other issues. Bounce the ball back to the Province where there are more resources and authority.
2). Stick to the mandate. Cities have an obligation to provide a reasonable level of health, safety, and security services. Anything else can probably be provided by the private sector – usually more efficiently and effectively.
3). It’s not your money. Elected officials’ addiction to taxpayer and business funding for non-essentials has to end immediately.
4). Trust the citizens. It’s easy to gauge interest in non-essential spending plans: Hold plebiscites. The year is 2021 and technology makes it easy and affordable to learn what people really feel is worth funding.
5). Change the mindset. Getting elected to a four year term isn’t the end of accountability. It is only the beginning.
We can break the cycle of municipal fiscal abuse through enhanced transparency and accountability. By requiring frequently renewed spending mandates – annually at the very least – citizens can expect better results and lower taxes. Who doesn’t want that?
Dale Leier
Lethbridge