Strange Bedfellows
My Marion County Democratic friends had a news conference today calling on Republicans to join them on township government reform. I’m a little hurt they didn’t send me any notice (although I hear Ed Treacy is afraid to answer any of my questions) because they would have discovered I actually agree with them.
State Representative Bill Crawford is calling for township government consolidation via referendum on a township by township basis. Believe it or not, I don’t think Bill is all that far off. In fact I think a referendum would be just what this city needs. I’ve spoken to a number of the members of the Marion County delegation, Bosma, Hinkle, DeLaney, Sullivan, Merritt and Barnes and each asked about government consolidation in their last round of legislative surveys and each time voters and constituents came back in support of it by at least 60%.
Who would have thought both Lawrence and Wayne township voters would want consolidation? Maybe they’re tired of paying for three fire departments (Lawrence) or a trustee who spent $40,000 with a local public relations to show voters how relevant township government is (Wayne)? And how many families are waiting to bury loved ones in Marion County, but can’t afford to do it? Where’s that poor relief? And don’t the trustees oversee cemetery upkeep? They should be able to hit that one out of the park.
I think if you ask anyone who pays taxes, they’d be in favor of township government reform. If you use the system, why mess with the gravy train? I’m not talking about the poor, I’m talking about most of the people who run the show. And here’s some food for thought, property tax caps will also be on the ballot as well. If someone is going to vote for tax caps do you really think they’re going to vote to keep an extra layer of government around?
Wow, I’m agreeing with Marion County Democrats. Next thing you know Ed, me and our wives will be going to dinner together. The times they are a changing.
