Polk City Council Getting Motivated
By Peter Wolfgram, Staff Writer
6/22/2006
Endless streams of ideas, both perfect and outrageous, and countless discussions about whether the police department truly needs an attack helicopter have exhausted the minds and bodies of Polk city citizens. Staff counselors roaming the halls provided valuable guidance to all citizens as department heads struggled to make cuts.
When the morning session concluded, several citizens commented on the absence of the mayor from the intense work sessions taking place at Armstrong Hall. He reportedly spent a good deal of time researching for the budget meeting later that night, while the rest of City Council worked closely with the department heads to improve their budget proposals. Members of the council are reportedly going to take greater charge of the meetings, but it remains to be seen whether a new approach will move the business of developing a new budget forward faster.
Up to this point, the council has struggled to find the right balance of power. The mayor has thus far demonstrated terrific organization and government skills, but has dominated over the council during discussion. Wednesday night’s meetings will set the tone for the crucial days ahead. A date for a vote on the budget is likely to be held Wednesday night, or at the latest, early Thursday.