6 Responses to “towards accountability”

1. posted by john m at October 29, 2006 7:52 am :
   

   For example:

   The representative needs to be responsive to communication. Whoever is elected, people need to know that they can get a response from them. Also, I would love it if the representative had a blog. This would be a great tool for communication and feedback. Posting about what is being considered on the council and what they thy think about the issues would be informative. At the next election cycle, we could ask — Has Representative M___ been forthcoming in communicating and responding to requests for information?

   I would like to see continued neighborhood restoration in the blighted areas. The work in Fairmount has been impressive in its effect and quality. At the next election cycle, we could ask — What has Rep.M___ done to encourage the construction of quality affordable housing in the neighborhood?

2. posted by phil at October 29, 2006 8:47 am :
   

   What has Rep.M___ done to get rid of the damn weeds (trees?) growing in the sidewalks?

   Or, let’s take this to where the responsibilty also rests: What has Rep. M ____ done to inform homeowner’s that it is THEIR reponsibilty to kill/pull the weeds on the sidewalks in front of or alongside their homes? And, what has Rep. M _____ done to enforce the city code sections that penalizes homeowners who fail to do so?

3. posted by Bob at October 31, 2006 12:44 am :
   

   With the housing market stagnating, the real question facing the incoming council person is whether they can work with the administration to hold taxes down. We have seen tax rates reduced, but budgets increased due to a very strong real estate market. Due to the strong tax base, the administration has not had to really make any tough budget choices, despite some tough rhetoric from the mayor. While the city cannot compete with its suburban neighbors as far as tax rates (due to some obvious fiscal issues), it cannot let its rates get any less competitive. So, my proposed benchmarking metric is the spread of Richmond’s to Henrico’s tax rate. As the real estate market in a region would be a measure of the relative desirability of us over them (and capture such things as governmental efficiency, political skill, neighborhood quality of life, and solid downtown redevelopment efforts). If Henrico is an unfair comparison, how about Norfolk? (Or Dinwiddy) External benchmarks (however unfair or far fetched) are motivating. A Shelbyville to our Springfield.

4. posted by cj at November 4, 2006 11:31 am :
   

   such a form/document already exists. I’ll try to get you a copy.

5. posted by R.M."Reggie" Malone,Sr. at November 16, 2006 11:05 am :
   

   I want to thank all who came out to vote and especially those who voted for my candidacy. I ran on the need for “change” because I believed, and still believe that I would better serve and represent all residents in the district. However, I understand that there are those who oppose change and accept and want to keep things the way they are whether or not it improves their lives and neighborhoods. Again, I thank all of my supporters.

6. posted by Heather at November 16, 2006 11:35 am :
   

   Reggie,

   While you won’t get paid for it, I’m sure the 7th District would greatly appreciate any assistance or advice on how WE can make the 7th district better.

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