Warren Mayor James Fouts Informs City Council That His Administration Demands Openness and Transparency in Budget Process
Will not participate in unproductive political sideshow that does nothing to move the community forward
This morning I sent a letter to Mindy Moore, Secretary of the Warren City Council informing her that members of my administration will not participate in council budget hearings as such participation is not required by the Warren City Charter. This announcement comes after Mindy Moore, Secretary of the Warren City Council informed me that a public presentation of the budget is not required by the Charter.
The budget process is a vital tool to move our city forward. Every single year I’ve been Mayor I’ve delivered my budget presentation to city council the second Monday in April to council’s that were supportive of my efforts and some that had different ideas, but it was always conducted with professionalism. That is something sadly lacking from the current leadership of the city council, including the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary, who have turned nearly every possible public meeting into a political sideshow.
Participating in their political games is not required by the charter as Secretary Moore has agreed, so I will not be presenting in their public hearing, and nor will my department heads. Since I recognize the council’s role in the budget process and the public transparency, my administration will accept requests for information or clarification from members of the council and will provide detailed answers in writing.
Both the written questions and written answers will be posted on the Warren City website so that all members of the public and media can receive the information without the theatrics that come along with public hearings of this council. I will not subject our fine public servants to the threats, name-calling, intimidation, and targeting that far too many have been subjected to by the four leaders of the city council. Enough is enough.
It’s my sincere hope that this city council will see the light, end the political games, and refocus their efforts on serving the public and treating those who work for our citizens with the dignity and respect they deserve. Until that time they can submit questions in writing.
A copy of the letter is attached.
Mayor James R. Fouts
City of Warren
One City Square- Suite 215
Warren, MI 48093-6726
586-574-4520
mayor@cityofwarren.org
Original source can be found here.
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