Accountability.
Accountability is defined in Webster's dictionary as liable to be called to account, or answerable. I intend to be accountable to the people of Evansville. What do I actually mean by that statement... or is it just another political platitude? Even before Election Day, I plan to visit as many heads of Evansville's City departments as will meet with me to get an intimate feel of their responsibilities, capabilities and problems. On that score, I have already begun. By developing a direct relationship with each one. I hope to be able to know their present status. I plan to revisit them on a yearly, or more frequently as needed, basis. Additionally, I will ask my city council colleagues to join me in a request for passage of a quarterly review report by each department throughout the year. Thus, we should know what is going on in government. When analyzing a current problem, I will repeatedly review each of the studies until I comprehend it, try to get my own additional, direct data, and be forthright as to what my conclusions will be. I often have initial ideas and opinions on complex matters, but I will always listen to all opinions before I make up my mind. I am willing to change my position if a more cogent argument is forthcoming. I understand that this process may make me occasionally unpopular with some segments of the electorate, but people should know the logic behind my final opinion so that they can understand and hold me accountable. The above is my concept of accountability. What is yours?