The Observation Deck

Interesting article in the PD the other day. http://www.cleveland.com/plaindealer/st ... xml&coll=2

Lakewood is leading the way to regionalism with Mayor George beating the drum the loudest.

The water rate contract was signed by two cities so far, others are holding out feeling that the paltry discount offered was a slap in the face.

Bedford and Lakewood are among five cities that buy water from Cleveland and sell it to their residents. The cities will receive discounts, with savings varying according to the amount of water. For example, Lakewood expects to save $84,000 a year. The suburb paid Cleveland $5.4 million for water last year.

Cleveland Heights, which also buys water from Cleveland, is holding out for a bigger discount, Mayor Edward Kelley said.

"We're a $9 million customer; they're offering us $81,000," Kelley said. "That's a slap in the face."

Does the Mayor get to do this all by himself or does he need Council's approval?

What was also interesting is that the contract

Lakewood's contract says all suburbs that strike water deals also should share income taxes with each other.

If we are giving up our taxes - is this something Mayor George can do alone or does he need a vote of council or of the citizens?

I'm not necessarily sure that I disagree with the concept. But the article goes on to say that there is a study going on regarding the best way to do this.

I know that we have a strong Mayor form of government. This just seems to be a huge decision that the Mayor is deciding apparently alone. I wish the council would get to decide:

1) Water
a. Contine the status quo
b. Allow Cleveland to do everything - bill, fix waterlines etc.
c. Build a crib and compete with Cleveland
d. Consider other sources for our water.

2) Regionalism - I think should be a vote of the citizens.

I swore I could have read in one of Stan's recaps that this was discussed at a council meeting.

I could be wrong though.