The Council has held 2 budget deliberations meetings so far with sparse attendance. There are several more scheduled before the end of this fiscal year. I want to take the opportunity to personally invite you to attend these meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31 at 8:00pm at City Hall Library. Your input is not only desired, but necessary.
While I am not a member of the finance committee, I did want to share some of my thoughts. Sitting in these meetings brings back memories of management courses heavily based on the teachings of Porter, Senge and Drucker. What would these management gurus say about Plainfield? Probably something simple, obvious and catchy but previously not clearly stated. For example, Plainfield should implement the “3 Ps - Priorities, Process, Performance”.
1. PRIORITIES - We need to prioritize the services we want. Having limited resources means we need to make tough decisions. Several Councilors have already suggested adopting a list of priorities and I agree whole-heartedly.
2. PROCESS - We need a yearlong budget process encompassing both passing the budget and managing it throughout the year. The Finance Committee is already working on a process to pass the budget for this year and next. I would also like to see how the Council will oversee the budget throughout the year. For example, reporting on monthly department spending would give us an idea of where we are over budget or under budget and allow us to work with the CFO to encumber department budgets when necessary. In other words, it allows for more controlled spending.
3. PERFORMANCE - We must measure the impact of spending. This will ensure that we are getting a return on our tax dollars. In addition, it sets the standard for one year so that we can raise the bar in the next year. This was discussed during budget meetings held last fall and should be continued this year.
I hope to see more residents at the next meeting.
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Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
IT in Plainfield (Part III)
The Administration pulled the Salary Ordinance for the Director of Data Processing off the agenda tonight. I am happy to say that the Administration has promised to give the Council a detailed presentation on the creation of this position at the March 9th meeting, allowing the Council more information and time before deciding how to move forward.
Detailed presentations illustrating the thought process behind making any decision should be standard. It should be the rule and not the exception. Going forward the Council must accept nothing less. I look forward to seeing a thorough presentation by the Administration.
As I have stated before, I am committed to bringing Plainfield’s technology into the 21st Century; however, I want to make sure that the decision on HOW to do this is well thought-out and carefully considered. I am accountable to the residents of Plainfield and I have not forgotten my promises to taxpayers.
Without the support of residents via response to my blog entry, phone calls and e-mails sent to me and other Council members, I would not be reporting such an outcome. THANK YOU!
I have posed a number of questions over the past several weeks that have gone unanswered. I have listed those questions (and the suggested questions of resident Sandy Gurshman) below. Please suggest any additional questions that should be addressed next week.
1. What will be the total IT cost (best estimate will do) for the remainder of this year? What are the annualized costs?
2. How does the City plan to off-set these costs?
3. What research has been done on the possibility of a shared service agreement, either to replace or to supplement the position of a Director?
4. Are there other options? (ex: Livingston has an IT Manager at 70k/yr)
5. What are the expected outcomes of hiring a Director of Data Processing?
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Detailed presentations illustrating the thought process behind making any decision should be standard. It should be the rule and not the exception. Going forward the Council must accept nothing less. I look forward to seeing a thorough presentation by the Administration.
As I have stated before, I am committed to bringing Plainfield’s technology into the 21st Century; however, I want to make sure that the decision on HOW to do this is well thought-out and carefully considered. I am accountable to the residents of Plainfield and I have not forgotten my promises to taxpayers.
Without the support of residents via response to my blog entry, phone calls and e-mails sent to me and other Council members, I would not be reporting such an outcome. THANK YOU!
I have posed a number of questions over the past several weeks that have gone unanswered. I have listed those questions (and the suggested questions of resident Sandy Gurshman) below. Please suggest any additional questions that should be addressed next week.
1. What will be the total IT cost (best estimate will do) for the remainder of this year? What are the annualized costs?
2. How does the City plan to off-set these costs?
3. What research has been done on the possibility of a shared service agreement, either to replace or to supplement the position of a Director?
4. Are there other options? (ex: Livingston has an IT Manager at 70k/yr)
5. What are the expected outcomes of hiring a Director of Data Processing?
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IT in Plainfield (Part II)
I shared the following information at Monday night's council meeting:
On Thursday evening I called for an IT committee meeting. The Union County Director of Data Processing agreed to come in and share her opinion on creating the position of an IT Director. During our initial phone conversation she was adamantly opposed to creating this position, suggesting instead that 2 technicians would get Plainfield moving in the right direction. At the meeting, however, she presented the opposite viewpoint - that an IT Director IS needed. I was thrown off by this change in opinion; however, I wanted to share this new piece of information with the public.
If there is a need to bring in a technology professional with a high-level understanding of technological processes and systems, then we should continue to look into what options exist to meet those needs.
.
On Thursday evening I called for an IT committee meeting. The Union County Director of Data Processing agreed to come in and share her opinion on creating the position of an IT Director. During our initial phone conversation she was adamantly opposed to creating this position, suggesting instead that 2 technicians would get Plainfield moving in the right direction. At the meeting, however, she presented the opposite viewpoint - that an IT Director IS needed. I was thrown off by this change in opinion; however, I wanted to share this new piece of information with the public.
If there is a need to bring in a technology professional with a high-level understanding of technological processes and systems, then we should continue to look into what options exist to meet those needs.
.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
IT in Plainfield
As Chair of the IT Committee, I gave a committee update at Monday’s Council meeting. The IT committee is focused on bringing Plainfield’s technology into the 21st century. There is no doubt that a strong technology infrastructure and IT vision will move the City forward.
The only option that has been discussed to address our technology need is to create a brand new position - Director of Data Processing (aka Director of Information Technology). I agree that we need better leadership and direction in this area. I do not agree, however, that the Council should create this position without an understanding of 1) the true cost to taxpayers and 2)other (less costly) options that exist to meet our needs.
Here are some facts:
1. No other municipality in Union County has an IT Director.
2. Woodbridge Township does have an IT Director, but shares the cost with Woodbridge BOE.
3. In September 2006 there was a Union County Summit on Shared Services. 18 municipal representatives attended, including Plainfield’s Carlton McGee. The consensus from that meeting - All municipalities are suffering from a poor IT structure and a shared services approach is the best approach.
4. Director of Data Processing salary ranges from $90,000 to $130,000. At that maximum number, this position would be the second highest salary in the City, costing more than any other non-union position except one.
5. The Director will not work alone. He or she will require staff and a budget for training, equipment, etc.
Here are the unanswered questions that the IT Committee has posed:
1. What will be the total IT cost (best estimate will do) for the remainder of this year? What are the annualized costs?
2. How does the City plan to off-set these costs?
3. What research has been done on the possibility of a shared service agreement, either to replace or to supplement the position of a Director?
4. Are there other options? (ex: Livingston has an IT Manager at 70k/yr)
The prevailing argument to move forward in creating this new expense is that we can’t afford to go any longer without investing in IT. I agree, we can’t. But we also can’t afford to make short-sighted decisions that would increase our budget at a time when other municipalities are taking huge actions to cut costs.
I am urging my colleagues on the Council to hold off on this decision until we are fully informed. Originally I voted to move the creation of this position forward because I was assured the Council would receive more information. We have not. Furthermore, I am not convinced that the Council will have any meaningful say in the funding of this position, once it has been created. The Administration is in charge of day-to-day operations of the City. The Council is the legislative body. While the Council votes on what the budget will be, it is ultimately the Mayor and her Administration that decide how the money is spent. Our government is set-up this way to ensure checks and balances and that is a good thing, but only if the Council makes thoughtful decisions.
I will continue to research this issue and hope to have more information by the end of the weekend.
.
The only option that has been discussed to address our technology need is to create a brand new position - Director of Data Processing (aka Director of Information Technology). I agree that we need better leadership and direction in this area. I do not agree, however, that the Council should create this position without an understanding of 1) the true cost to taxpayers and 2)other (less costly) options that exist to meet our needs.
Here are some facts:
1. No other municipality in Union County has an IT Director.
2. Woodbridge Township does have an IT Director, but shares the cost with Woodbridge BOE.
3. In September 2006 there was a Union County Summit on Shared Services. 18 municipal representatives attended, including Plainfield’s Carlton McGee. The consensus from that meeting - All municipalities are suffering from a poor IT structure and a shared services approach is the best approach.
4. Director of Data Processing salary ranges from $90,000 to $130,000. At that maximum number, this position would be the second highest salary in the City, costing more than any other non-union position except one.
5. The Director will not work alone. He or she will require staff and a budget for training, equipment, etc.
Here are the unanswered questions that the IT Committee has posed:
1. What will be the total IT cost (best estimate will do) for the remainder of this year? What are the annualized costs?
2. How does the City plan to off-set these costs?
3. What research has been done on the possibility of a shared service agreement, either to replace or to supplement the position of a Director?
4. Are there other options? (ex: Livingston has an IT Manager at 70k/yr)
The prevailing argument to move forward in creating this new expense is that we can’t afford to go any longer without investing in IT. I agree, we can’t. But we also can’t afford to make short-sighted decisions that would increase our budget at a time when other municipalities are taking huge actions to cut costs.
I am urging my colleagues on the Council to hold off on this decision until we are fully informed. Originally I voted to move the creation of this position forward because I was assured the Council would receive more information. We have not. Furthermore, I am not convinced that the Council will have any meaningful say in the funding of this position, once it has been created. The Administration is in charge of day-to-day operations of the City. The Council is the legislative body. While the Council votes on what the budget will be, it is ultimately the Mayor and her Administration that decide how the money is spent. Our government is set-up this way to ensure checks and balances and that is a good thing, but only if the Council makes thoughtful decisions.
I will continue to research this issue and hope to have more information by the end of the weekend.
.
.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
My memories of Washington, D.C.
I have an even deeper sense of purpose and drive after spending the last several days in Washington. The spirit of D.C. over the past few days cannot be put into words. Those of us gathered there were full of hope and happiness. We were celebrating a moment in time that will forever change the direction of our country.
Sunday’s “We Are One” Concert
Woodstock was before my time, but I’d imagine that Sunday’s Concert was a colder version of that. Hundreds of thousands of people gathered between Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument for a star-studded celebration of Unity in America. I was at Washington Monument watching the Jumbotrons (which seemed more like mini-trons at the time) with a group of friends. Shivering, but happy, thousands of people stood together enjoying some of America’s greatest hits. The crowd was loud - talking with whoever was around them and bonding over the shared moment in history. Every time the camera panned to the Obamas people went wild! Those in attendance were only quiet during President Obama’s speech - you could hear a pin drop. The moment really hit me after President Obama spoke and Beyonce performed our National Anthem. The entire crowd was singing along, proud to be American and proud to have elected such an amazing man.
Woodstock was before my time, but I’d imagine that Sunday’s Concert was a colder version of that. Hundreds of thousands of people gathered between Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument for a star-studded celebration of Unity in America. I was at Washington Monument watching the Jumbotrons (which seemed more like mini-trons at the time) with a group of friends. Shivering, but happy, thousands of people stood together enjoying some of America’s greatest hits. The crowd was loud - talking with whoever was around them and bonding over the shared moment in history. Every time the camera panned to the Obamas people went wild! Those in attendance were only quiet during President Obama’s speech - you could hear a pin drop. The moment really hit me after President Obama spoke and Beyonce performed our National Anthem. The entire crowd was singing along, proud to be American and proud to have elected such an amazing man.
The Crowd at Washington Memorial
Jumbotron seems like "Mini-tron"
The crowd goes wild for Mr. President
The crowd cheers after President Obama's speech
Inaugural Parade and Swearing-in Ceremony
I was selected to volunteer for the Inaugural Parade, escorting ticketed individuals to their seats. Volunteers arrived at 5:30am. It was early and very cold, but spirits were high. Armed with many layers of clothes, hand-warmers, feet-warmers and a heavy coat, I braved the winter weather. Despite all the layers, there were times that I was concerned about my frozen fingers and toes! I just kept repeating, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience....” I bonded with other frozen volunteers and law enforcement agents as we waited for the crowds to move in.
Empty bleachers at 5:30am 
Bonding with volunteers and security
Volunteers watching Obama take the Oath
After the speech, I returned to the cold. Those with and without tickets had begun lining up as early as 4:00am so the sidewalks were packed by noon. Time passed quickly and the parade started around 3:30pm.
The bleachers are no longer empty
Supporters are cold, but enthusiastic
And the parade begins
You could hear a wave of applause and cheering erupt as the Obamas moved up Pennsylvania Avenue toward the White House. As I pulled off my gloves to get ready to take the most important picture of my life...I dropped my camera...and it didn’t turn back on! I was devastated. About 30 seconds after I realized my camera was broken, the Obamas drove by. I can’t complain, however, as I was at the front of the barricades and had a clear view of the family waving at the crowds. A few minutes later Vice-President Biden and his family walked by. I even got a friendly wave from Mr. Biden!
Fortunately, other volunteers who saw me drop my camera or heard my sob story were kind enough to send me their photos. This should give you a good idea of what I saw.
It's the First Lady and Sasha!
Vice-President Biden waving
Tuesday Night Gala
A good friend of mine who worked diligently on Obama’s campaign invited me to a gala hosted by an Illinois Congressman. I met many individuals who worked with Obama when he was a State Senator. It was a very enjoyable evening!
The Take-Away
I’ve included my favorite part of President Obama’s Inaugural Speech below:
“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas that for far too long have strangled our politics. We remain a young nation. But in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.” - President Barack Obama (1/20/09)
All of Plainfield’s leadership (including me) can learn from our new President. Genuine unity, transparent government and a focus on Plainfield’s needs will move the Queen City forward. This is an exciting time in history and the momentum exists to make real and lasting change. .
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Back from D.C.
I returned from D.C. late last night. It was an amazing experience. I attended Sunday’s concert, the Inaugural Parade, and the Illinois Ball (an unofficial ball). Unfortunately I’m experiencing technical difficulties with my camera. I will post my photos, videos and stories as soon as possible.
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Monday, January 12, 2009
Spending Wisely: Ensuring Value for Taxpayers
I want to ensure that you receive the best services possible at the lowest cost possible. I hate to be Dr. Doom, but the reality is that we are in very difficult financial times and we need to carefully consider how we are spending your money.
Even the kindest forecasts by financial analysts and market gurus suggest that this recession will last through most of 2009. Uglier economic predications suggest that the recession will last through 2011. The unemployment rate, already 7.2% in December, may still increase. The values of homes, down about 25% nationally, may still decrease. Financially, many Americans are already struggling and times may become even more difficult. Citizens are looking to their elected officials to help save money.
I was elected to understand how the City is spending money and to vote on these matters wisely. This is why I voted to table the resolutions giving city-owned cars to several City officials at the January 1 meeting. The Council and I needed more information on these expenditures. What is the cost to the taxpayers? What is the value? Is this expense necessary? Is having a city-owned car a perk or an important piece of an overall compensation package? Will denying a city-owned vehicle to these officials jeopardize the safety or well-being of any resident? These questions must be answered before the Council can make a wise decision. In the meantime, these officials still have access to their cars as I voted to grant temporary use.
I will continue to ask these types of questions and research answers throughout the year so that I vote wisely. I hope that the residents of Plainfield, my colleagues on the Council and the administration will support thoughtful decision-making.
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Even the kindest forecasts by financial analysts and market gurus suggest that this recession will last through most of 2009. Uglier economic predications suggest that the recession will last through 2011. The unemployment rate, already 7.2% in December, may still increase. The values of homes, down about 25% nationally, may still decrease. Financially, many Americans are already struggling and times may become even more difficult. Citizens are looking to their elected officials to help save money.
I was elected to understand how the City is spending money and to vote on these matters wisely. This is why I voted to table the resolutions giving city-owned cars to several City officials at the January 1 meeting. The Council and I needed more information on these expenditures. What is the cost to the taxpayers? What is the value? Is this expense necessary? Is having a city-owned car a perk or an important piece of an overall compensation package? Will denying a city-owned vehicle to these officials jeopardize the safety or well-being of any resident? These questions must be answered before the Council can make a wise decision. In the meantime, these officials still have access to their cars as I voted to grant temporary use.
I will continue to ask these types of questions and research answers throughout the year so that I vote wisely. I hope that the residents of Plainfield, my colleagues on the Council and the administration will support thoughtful decision-making.
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