Wanted: leadership
The caucuses are done, the endorsed candidates have been named, but we are a long way from knowing – at least in the case of the Republican Party – who the ultimate standard-bearer will be for the November general election. For the record, Dorinda Borer was named the Democratic nominee, and looks to have secured not only the nomination, but no internal opposition forcing a September primary.
Businesswoman Paige Weinstein was given the nod by the GOP last week but faces a three-way primary to determine the nominee. Both 2021 candidate Barry Lee Cohen, and longtime party activist Steven R. Mullins are seeking the nomination.
Our intent is not to rehearse the issues of the primary, but the attributes the candidates of either party must present to the public if the city is ever to get out of the situation it is in financially and otherwise.
Competence – In the weeks and months leading up to November, Borer and whomever her ultimate challenger is must discuss competence. It is no secret the last several years have exhibited a lack of competence in administrative decision-making, but also in general day-to-day operation. This lack of competence goes further back than just the current administration. Indeed, the problem goes back years if not decades.
The ability to direct people, move policy in departments, and change the way the city does business will need a competency not shown so far. Over the next weeks we hope all the candidates address this issue, and how they intend to alter the current track. And it goes beyond even that to putting qualified people in position to implement those decisions and policies.
Prioritization – Several key issues face the next administration from police force recruitment and retention to streamlining operations in the manner the Municipal Accountability Review Board (MARB) is espousing, to economic development and revitalization. How do the candidates propose to “hit the ground running,” and what priorities do they see as the most pressing. This will be an important aspect of the campaign and might spell out the differences between them.
Cooperation – In this matter we mean not only having a good relationship with the MARB or the unions, or the department heads. Working with the City Council is a major goal we hope to see in the new administration. While we expect – and at times desire – robust disagreements in the making of policy, ultimately, the parties must come together and reach a commonality of purpose.
One of the great problems facing the city over the last several years, if not decades, was the cross-purposes we have seen at times between the legislative and executive branches. Those cross-purposes have degenerated into enmity, especially if political factionalism entered the discussions.
The next administration must be able to bring the various factions together working toward what is best for the long-term benefit of the taxpayers instead of the short-term benefit of political dealers.
In the coming weeks we hope the candidates of both parties will address these matters and offer the voters a clear direction of purpose should they be elected to office. West Haven is in dire need of real, substantial leadership with a vision toward the future. The candidates must address that vision and how they attempt to make it a reality.