I also applaud Tim for starting this thread and, no, I didn't know he
was running for Mayor.
I agree with Tim that we need accountability and fiscal responsibility
in our city leadership. I will argue that the citizen participation that
has resulted from ten years of NRP has helped to open the black box.
What was once a representative democracy with major decisions made in
the Democratic caucus, is now a participatory democracy where the
affected parties have numerous avenues to have their voices not only
heard but, heeded. Its not party building that is going on, its citizen building.
When I lived in the 7th Ward (back in the '20s, er, my 20's), Arne
Carlson was an alderman and my Republican neighbors not doubt felt that
they were frozen out of the process. While we still lack any real
Republican representation on the Council I believe that David is right
when he says non-DFLers have more influence in the NRP process than in
City Hall.
As I was writing this, Joe Barisonzi made my key points for me:
The NRP is about participatory democracy which is emerging in the
internet age as a powerful tool for change.
Citizens are becoming more engaged and learning to hold their elected
officials more accountable for decisions affecting us.
Finally, I would argue that NRP is successful when it supports the
dreams of neighbors working together to better their neighborhoods. By
giving the weight of city dollars to citizen support for an idea, NRP
encourages people to invest in their surroundings. This is a good
development.
--
In cooperation,
Erik Riese
Decisive Moment - Decision making services.
Seward, USA:
a great place to live, work, learn, and play!
(some pretty good restaurants too)
(612) 242-8528
(612) 724-3217
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