“We Can Do Better” - Comments From 3/1 Council Meeting
- riverafordistrict5
- Mar 2, 2022
- 2 min read
Franklin’s 5th District Aldermanic Candidate Says “We Can Do Better”
March 1st, 2022, Franklin, WI- It’s important that we all take a moment to reflect on the events that have led us to where we are today. It has been long and exhausting for all.
The citizens and residents of Franklin, however, are the ones that have been ignored, ridiculed, and are now being scapegoated for the consequences as a result of actions from Franklin’s elected officials. Those to blame are the ones that entered chambers with predetermined decisions or acted impartially by speaking in favor and skewing numbers on behalf of the absent applicant.
Mayor Olson has misled and told citizens this was a “done deal” in addition to directing staff to make every effort to push this slaughterhouse down the throats of residents no matter what the cost. Former economic development director, Cali Berg made a statement using incorrect figures, published on 10 18 20 stating TID 6 was being anchored by “Franklin manufacturer” This was all prior to the Special Use Public Hearing, required by State and local law. This foolish mistake put the city at risk financially.
These financial risks have been exacerbated by related projects such as Water Tower Park and the rapid growth that has outpaced DPW and fire services available to the area putting higher costs directly at the feet of taxpayers.
This infrastructure will not be paid off for over twenty years. The Economic Impact study paid for by Franklin Community Advocates shows a loss of value to surrounding homes which means less tax base for the city and a net loss in home value (depreciating a major personal lifetime investment) for nearby residents. Don’t forget the impact to the nationally recognized Indian Community School that has had their concerns ignored by our city’s officials.
The core values and personal ethics that guide my decisions have been absent from this process. What I have seen compelled me to run for Alderman.
The values of my healthcare employer and what has been lacking in our city’s processes are:
• Patients first: We should be Putting our Citizens first in all that we do
• Integrity: Adhering to an uncompromising code of ethics that emphasizes complete honesty and sincerity
• Teamwork:
• Excellence: Continuously striving to be better
Franklin’s City’s motto is Celebrating Quality of Life. Quality is another key factor absent from conversations around this SUP. My employer defines Quality as something that is:
• Collaborative.
• Measurable.
• Transparent.
• Valid. We strive to ensure that our data is sound. We choose measures developed and tested by respected, objective third-party experts.
We can clean up our city and correct the mistakes that have been made but keeping the people responsible in office and expecting different results is insanity.
We can do better!
Alderman Barber’s, words last year were that he has “gained a deep appreciation for the integrity and competency of our Staff and deeply respect their input and evaluation.” Citizens will be watching to see how the council votes on the removal of park lands that goes against the planning departments recommendation.
Thank you!
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