Saturday, July 06, 2013

San Angelo's New Mayor Not New



San Angelo's new Mayor Dwain Morrison is not New. First, he's been on City Council for quite some time. Second he made it clear he's not Alvin New, the mayor he's replacing.

Morrison explicitly told City staff to do their homework, to know what they plan to talk about and be prepared to answer questions.  On numerous occasions I expected Alvin New to express his displeasure at the quality of staff presentations and analysis, something he'd never suffer as CEO of Town & Country.  That didn't happen.  New viewed Council as a policy body, apparently not responsible for quality of operations. 

Mayor Morrison told the public he wants to be the unifier after a divisive election.  He asked for forgiveness for offending anyone in the past.  He wants to represent all citizens and will treat people with honesty and fairness. 

Morrison promised not to lie, steal, betray or to deceive.  He promised to be honest, open and transparent in everything Council does.    Morrison said "Let's unite.  Let's work together.  Let's support each other.  Let's help each other."  I agree with Mayor Morrison.  San Angelo needs it. 

1 comment:

Jim Turner said...

You stated "On numerous occasions I expected Alvin New to express his displeasure at the quality of staff presentations and analysis, something he'd never suffer as CEO of Town & Country." As a frequent occupier of one of the eighth seats at council meeting and a frequent public commenter, I think our former Mayor got exactly the quality and kind of presentation and analysis he wanted. He frequently gave out answers that appeared to be from information that wasn't available to the rest of the council or the public. In today's world information is power.

I think we are going to see some major changes. If the first full meeting of the new council is any indication, this is a very different council with a different approach. Openness, honesty, and complete disclosure seem to be part of the new direction.