Rebuilding Trust in Our Government
One of Americas statesmen stated “government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.” His presidency ushered in an era of disdain for government and a widespread cynicism that government could be effective in addressing our challenges.
Today, as we confront a crisis that has shaken confidence in our financial system and economy, we have an opportunity to restore public trust and confidence in the legitimate role of government. Indeed, to effectively tackle our economic challenges and to implement the reforms we need in our healthcare, education, energy, and environmental policies, our government will need to garner strong public support.
However, rebuilding public trust will not happen in the face of a pervasive perception that government is not transparent and accountable, cronyism is rampant, and public officials are more interested in helping themselves than in serving the public good.
Taking strong, swift, and decisive action to address abuses and begin to rebuild public trust should be the first priority for our city, state and federal government in the new legislative session.
Create a Task Force on Public Integrity with a mission to develop a comprehensive proposal for ethics and lobbying reform in our city and state. Which addresses reforms in three areas: (1) strengthening enforcement of ethics, campaign finance, and lobbying laws; (2) strengthening civil and criminal penalties for abuses; and (3) improving awareness and education for public officials.
Reinforce honesty, integrity and transparency by government officials as the core requirement to be and stay in office, any violations of these core tenets will cause the removal of the public official and the loss of "all benefits" retroactive.
While the many of our elected officials and government employees are honest, dedicated public servants, the actions of a few create a dark cloud over all.
Taking strong, swift, and decisive action to address these abuses and begin to rebuild public trust should be the first priority for our city, state and federal government in the new legislative session.
Compiled by: YJ Draiman
YJ Draiman for Mayor of LA
ReplyDeleteIn my humble opinion!
The biggest problem I see is the Pensions it take a major portion of the City Budget and keeps on growing.
This is a problem many Cities and States are facing. A solution has to be found.
The second is the Unions they are no longer an asset to the public, but a hindrance in solving the budget crisis and very in-efficient in work performance and very costly.
The Third item cut the City staff, reduce spending, eliminate redundancy, consolidate departments, increase efficiency, reward performance.
The Fourth item the Mayor should appoint one neighborhood council member to each of the city's boards of commissioners. Including the proprietary departments as well. Either through a charter amendment, ordinance or by policy directive.
The Fifth item make the city more business friendly - to attract businesses, not chase them away and reduce revenues - this takes a multitude of actions.
The Sixth item is to improve education, reduce the top heavy LAUSD administration. Make our schools an education icon, not a warehousing of students.
People today are concerned about a food, a roof over their head and a Job – This is top priority.
I think this is good for starters. (There are many more items)
Thank you
YJ Draiman for Mayor of Los Angeles 2013
PS. The key is for everyone to work together without any hidden agenda, the only concern should be the crises and the residents of the community. Everything must be above board and transparent.