I'd buy me a.......
We couldn't resist quoting the lyrics to the Bare Naked Ladies' , If I Had a Million Dollars, as an intro to Clr. Merulla's response to this:
Q. If enough funds are gathered through private investment and/or fund-raising, and all that is missing is an additional 5 million injection by the city, would you support the notion of building a permanent Velodrome, or do you believe an additional 5 million injection would not be prudent, despite the other money on the table?
Clr. Merulla: This question is similar to asking me what I would do if I won millions in the
Lottery. My contention has been that we need to focus on basics and not get
distracted by pipe dreams.
The issue I would take with Councillor Merulla's approach is that it's the function of our elected officials to be able still lead with vision and somewhat-charisma, offering up some degree of inspiration, even if it is regarding low-key initiative, non-flashy endeavours such as infrastructure. Granted, there's more bells, whistles and fireworks with exciting projects, as opposed to roads and sewers and the such, but this is where those special qualities come into play.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I've seen, there are very few members of Council capable of executing such leadership. The real downside of this is that people continually perceive of Hamilton as the place where good ideas and wonderful opportunities go to die...and because of this dearth of genuine, inspiring leadership, what we're left with...
...is a vacuum.
Recently, I spent eleven hours of my life at the two GIC meetings examining the velodrome issue. The stories I could tell about the general tone, the tenor of the proceedings, as well as the behaviour of some of the participants... Let's just say that in the face of so many questionable situations unfolding, from brouhahas to debacles to fiascos, such behaviour does not inspire confidence...and surely doesn't inspire.
Sad, really.
I concur with mystoneycreek - what is with these council members anyway?
ReplyDeleteBland upon bland.
This city needs, deserves! a LOT more.
The man is the mayor's office is a wash out, but isn't there someone else on council willing to show some leadership???
There has not been inspirational leadership in ages. Term limits and a university education prerequisite is something I would support. I also know people who should run but don't- unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteI am amazed that they took so much pride in changing the word "hockey" to "shinny". How clever