This piece was published in the Springfield News-Leader last Thursday.  The nega-bloggers came out in full strength, practicing their particular brand of “The Politics of Envy.”  I got accused of everything from writing a “softball, puff piece” to beginning my next run for mayor. (That was a surprise, since I’ve never run for mayor.)  I am one of the First Amendments strongest supporters, but I have to say that I pay more attention to folks who use their own name and don’t hide behind some cutesy, narcissistic alias.

Here’s the op-ed piece:

The squeaky wheel gets the grease.  This adage has certainly been true for the last couple of years in regards to the Police and Fire Pension issues.

However, as we move into a new fiscal year for the City of Springfield, it’s certainly time for all Springfieldians to tip our hats to the other 1800 City employees who have worked diligently and in relative obscurity while the pension controversies have raged.

Although it’s taking a bit longer this year because of all the frozen job openings, the potholes are getting filled in. In addition,

* Traffic signal lights are changed out before they burn out so as to prevent accidents.

* Where construction is planned, employees are assisting with the permits and inspections.

* Young, trained professionals are keeping our swimming pools safe.

* Technicians ensure that storm sirens are operational as we move into tornado season.

* Street signs are being replaced following thefts or collisions.

* Inspectors are ensuring that our restaurants are serving food and drink safely.

* Planning professionals are working to clean up brownfield sites in the city.

* Public information personnel are taking calls, working with citizens to satisfy complaints.

* Mechanics are keeping city vehicles in good repair and on the streets.

* The Art Museum displays exhibits of world-class paintings or prints.

* New parks are being dedicated; new greenways and bike paths are being created; and

* Storm water projects to reduce flooding are underway throughout the city.

All of these projects are occurring and being completed because of the dedicated employees working on behalf of the citizens of Springfield.

It’s no secret that the City of Springfield, like many municipalities, is in the middle of a period of declining tax revenues.  Right at 200 jobs are frozen or unfilled because of the recession and our cash flow situation.  Merit increases and step increases have been suspended because of a lack of cash.  Projects have had to be put on hold. 

All of our City employees are, by necessity, doing more with less.  And they’ve been doing it without a lot of squeaking.  They deserve a huge thank-you from both visitors and the residents of Springfield.