EDITORIAL Much at stake in choice of chief By: Recorder Spokesman Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder Originally posted 1/7/2004
Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak�s selection and announcement of Dayton, Ohio, Police Chief William McManus as his preferred candidate to replace outgoing Chief Robert Olson has raised several interesting issues for communities of color and Minneapolis in general. In a city often near the breaking point with racial tension, McManus would come into the position with significant support from communities of color, support never enjoyed by Olson. This support is also important for Rybak, who has often been considered deaf to the concerns of those communities. He was aided in his choice with input from an advisory committee made up of about 20 people of color. Having McManus confirmed by the city council is also crucial for Rybak. One of his first moves as mayor was to push for Olson�s contract to be bought out. Without the necessary support from the council, the move failed. Another high-profile defeat involving the chief of police could be costly for Rybak�s credibility and his need to be seen as an effective mayor. Also interesting to consider are the parties who are opposed to McManus. In contrast to the support of African American Council Members Natalie Johnson Lee and Don Samuels, McManus is opposed by the majority of council members, some of whom are known for supporting the interests of the business community over those of communities of color. Currently, McManus opponents outnumber his supporters by 7-6, and if only one opponent can be swayed, McManus will be confirmed. The council votes on January 16, and seven �aye� votes would make McManus the next police chief. http://www.spokesman-recorder.com/News/Article/Article.asp?NewsID=36978&sID=16 Posted by Shawn Lewis, Field Neighborhood -- ___________________________________________________________ Sign-up for Ads Free at Mail.com http://promo.mail.com/adsfreejump.htm REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
