HomeMy WebLinkAboutHal Correspondence #1
FROM THE DESK OF
GEORGE KRAMER
Tuesday, October 26,2004
Hal Cloer
815 Creek Stone Way
Ashland, OR 97520
Dear Hal:
Thank you for the chance to review the proposed changes to the Ashland City Charter. I
don't envy you your task in suggesting revisions and attempting to balance all the various
concerns such a project obviously entails. Before I get to my specific comments, let me state
that it appears much of the Charter is indeed rather cumbersome and in-need of "clean-up" to
remove elements that mirht more appropriately be contained in ordinances. I am, however,
dubious about making any major structural changes in the way Ashland government works, since
I know of no major problems that result from the current charter. That said, my comments
regarding the changes proposed, as they may effect Ashland's traditional character, are:
1) I believe Ashland is very well served by the separate election of Parks Commissioners and
that having elected officials specifically responsible for this aspect of the community has assured
a strong focus, and expertise, toward park development throughout Ashland's history. I would
strongly oppose an effort to transform the Parks Commission into an appointed body, subject to
the Council, as I think that doing so would inherently dilute our attention and commitment to
our parks, or at minimum put them at risk to other short-term city goals. IF some future
citizenry wishes to shift focus from parks to some other public good, they can certainly do so at
that time but I do not believe Ashland today has, nor should, make that decision.
To a lesser degree, but still I think an important element, is the direct election of a City Recorder
and Municipal Judge. It seems to me that both these aspects of Ashland are working well and
should not be changed unless there is a clear and compelling reason to do so.
2) I am also unconvinced Ashland's strong Mayor structure should be modified to a strong
manager system. I work in numerous communities, many with strong managers, and believe
Ashland benefits from its present structure which generally works well and assures Ashlanders
the opportunity to directly influence staffing through the election process.
3) For reasons similar to my concerns regarding the Parks Commission, I think the Ashland
City Band is an intrinsic and valuable part of Ashland's character. Having the levy within the
Charter protects the band from potential threat during trying times and so assures its
continuation. I would oppose moditying the Charter to allow any particular Council to remove
City support for the band without a vote of the people.
Sincerely,
3&6 NORTH LAUREL. ASHLAND, OREGO~ 97520-11504
541-482-9504. H1-482.9418 [FAX)
,gk r a mer@jeUnet.org