Break

Off to do some planning work today. I can’t seem to quit. Working with local governs rewards one in so many ways. It represents the most direct link between the public and government. Empty promises, lies, and bullcrap won’t cut it at the local level. As a man once told me, “Thinkin' don’t do it. Doin' do it.”

Local government, particularly at the municipal level, may be the truest form of democratic government left in America. It’s hard to go into politics at the local level in order to get rich. First, there isn’t enough money. Second, there are too many people watching. Oh, there are some who would seek to enrich themselves by getting elected mayor, but it rarely works. The greatest reward is the satisfaction of improving the lives of one's brothers and sisters.

So-called "dark money" avoids the local level. There is too much transparency. It favors the state and national stage where secrecy and skulduggery offer greater returns. 

From time to time, you see someone run for local office to "get even." They usually hurt themselves more than others. There are also those who would use public office to divide the citizenry for selfish purposes. I’ve seen it work, but not for long. People demand better from their local officials. They usually get it.

Back tomorrow.