Monroe County State of the County

I'm sitting here listening to Maggie Brooks give her "State of the County" address... so far, sounds pretty good. I like how she started off with economic development. Under her term so far, I would descrive her committment to economic development as, "lackluster," at best. Frankly, you cannot have a successful economic development effort without a (ugh - wait - need to pause - she just honored Gabe and Gene Dalmath for helping the zoo... ugh...)

Anyway, as I was saying, you can't have a economic development effort without a full time director of economic development. And, while she isn't hiring that person, at least she's discussing economic development as a high priority. I think that Terry Slaybaugh is great - but he cannot be all things in this administration, and Maggie needs to bring in a dedicated economic development director. Her idea of the entrepreneurial institute is a good one - and, I like the folks who are going to run it. (Won't mention who that is yet, until it's officially annonunced).

Now she's talking about MCH. "What to do about MCH," is the topic! LOL - they must seriously consider the outright sale of the hospital to an outside company. That's what she says. And at the very least, outsource the administration and staffing. Rob - what do you think? She says it's "an important community asset".... you agree? The time for debate is over - and stresses out the families and healthcare staff. She's appointing a permanent finanical review board to have a fiscally sustainable hospital. Her pledge: "MCH will not be closed, sold, or privatized.... end of discussion, end of debate." Cool beans. (Again, Rob, your thoughts?! LOL)

Long term financial condition of the County.... ongoing fiscal challenges..... last two years: we've been able to keep MC deficit free. The 2006 budget will do so as well. She's proud of all this (as she should be... it's very tough to do). OK... side note.. Jean is sitting in the audience eating something... STOP CHEWING! HAHAHAHAHAHHA.

Well, apparently 2007, 2008 and beyond are a budget gap of $102 million. Yay! We must address this, this year - while we still can.

OK... now she's mentioning that we need to keep the services we have... don't start throwing old people into the streets... wages for County workers is flat... health care coverage is still good, and saved taxpayers money on a continuing basis.... look at vacancies to see if they're necessary jobs.... new contracts are in place with the majority of the unions with about 2% increases in wages - way beneith most other counties.... lots of other savings... but one area that needs scrutiny - high caseloads and welfare - responsible for a lot of the deficit. County is responsible for all this, yes, and should do a better job at administering the welfare programs. Onondaga County is doing it better than we are - and saving money.

UGH... ok... gotta stop typing this stuff. Basically, good speach, and given well. Didn't hear any boos from the Democrats in the audience, and John Richardson looks great sitting there in the audience - undoubtedly wishing he were doing what I am - watching this on TV and drinking wine!