Catoosa Vision

Oversight Commitee

I wasn't at this week's (3/7/06) County Commission meeting, but here's what I'm told happened.

Chairman Clark started the meeting by announcing that he's looked into it and the rules allow him, as Chairman, to create an oversight committee completely appointed by him. So, he's created a Citizen's Oversight Committee that, he says, will review ALL personnel hires, and ALL county expenditures. The committee consists of Roger Nelson, Phyllis and one or two more I don't remember right off hand.

Other Commissioners asked "Why wouldn't each Commissioner have one appointment?" Clark just told them "Nope. No discussion is needed. I can do this and that's that." (paraphrase)

Now, I have to assume that the committee will be advisory only -- meaning they have no real power other than to voice their gripes about each and every thing that the county spends money on. So what purpose does it serve, when the other four commissioners don't respect it?

"Good question, Self!" I say. "Grandstanding... that's the purpose."

It's not like we don't already hear from Phyllis, Roger and the other budget hawks on a regular basis... like at every Commission meeting. I respect everyone's right to watch over their government... In fact, I'd go so far as to say it's our duty as democratic citizens to do precisely that.

But, Clark's method in how he's formed and will use this committee is petty, self-serving and divisive.

It's all very "Jerry Springer" meets "Beverly Hillbillies."

posted by Chris Casey @ 7:55 AM