The following is an email exchange I had yesterday with Councilman Mike Barber. I’ve taken the liberty of somewhat breaking Mike’s email down point by point to make it a bit easier on the eyes (was previously one large paragraph).
Ryan Shell: “I hope you had a great Easter weekend. Congratulations on making the tough decision of not running in District 4 again this year. I look forward to covering your campaign for Mayor (ha).
For a second, let’s pretend that in 2010 you will not in any way be part of the Greensboro City Council. Are there any fundamental changes you’d like to see on the council? Any improvements that can be made? Anything currently working really well?
As always, thanks for your time.”
Mike Barber: “Hi Ryan-Thanks for the email. The minute I decide to run for Mayor-you will be the first person I email!!!!!
I believe things have settled down since Bob stepped in as acting City Manager. More trust among staff and Council.
Fundamental changes…Our whole world has changed. From Federal to State to local gov’ts, we are broke!!!!
We must get out of anything that the private sector can do. It will happen over the next 10 years out of necessity; we will be ahead of the curve if we are visionary and proactive.
We should not build or buy another gov’t building that does not generate economic impact or fill a quality of life void.
We should get out of the amateur sports business and let communities and Y’s run our kids leagues.
We should reopen the landfill and plan for a future privatization of trash collection and other services. Staff will mention this tomorrow at our meeting.
We must differentiate all fees and pricing to benefit city taxpayers and charge a greater amount to those that use our services, e.g. coliseum parking, sports leagues (until eliminated), etc.
We must eliminate any program that makes decisions based on gender or skin tone, e.g. MBWE, some of the human relations dept functions etc.
Our country, our state, and local gov’ts no longer have wealth to throw away on intangible, touchy- feely nonsense. Our focus must be essential services and infrastructure. Again, this is already beginning to happen around the country and will happen here. Let’s get ahead of the curve.
Please know I am not insensitive to counter arguments and would advocate for phasing in changes. It is truly time for leaders to express the opinions that most people have quietly held for a long time. It is a new day and it can be a sunny day!!!!”
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Greensboro…
For A Clean Shave…Vote BARBER For Mayor!
What a brave guy to say what he said. I don’t think those viewpoints will be him elected mayor, unless the turnout from the district 3 & 4 folks gets much better.