Good stewards 101 years ago
Recent discussions by government entities have led me to believe that, among many misconceptions about public government, two need to be addressed.
One is the method of operation. Public entities such as cities, counties, and school districts are not private businesses. There might be a revenue stream of sorts, but more production does not mean more revenue.
True efficiency is not just increasing production or getting more work completed but being able to do these things and stay within the prescribed budget. That is true efficiency.
Good management of time and resources are not easy tasks.
Increased production at increased cost is not satisfactory to taxpayers because it could mean taxes will have to increase or something else will have to be cut to meet unplanned expenses.
Yes, I want to see my tax dollars used in the most proficient way, but there needs to be some planning and thought given.
Government entities do make money, so to speak, but are not in the business of making money like private enterprises.
Government entities are here to serve the common good of the majority of taxpayers. That's it. Nothing more.
Another misconception is the approval of purchases and projects. A consistent policy should be followed every time. Always seeking three bids for larger projects and purchases would keep a level playing field.
Becoming too familiar or comfortable with vendors who have always done the work is not the best way to spend public funds. Sure, there are times when smaller projects or consulting services are provided by the same company time after time to maintain consistency. And there may be unique situations where there is only one company in the area that provides a particular product or service.
Public servants and elected officials, paid with tax dollars, should not allow themselves to be wined and dined by companies from which equipment and supplies are purchased. The public could perceive it as the employee or official being "paid off" by the company to do business.
People are elected and appointed to positions to oversee public funds for the best interest of all, not for self gratification.
— SUSAN BERG
