Editorial

Outsider's view offers wisdom for community

Wednesday, August 2, 2006

Vacation time is a great time of the year, and not just because we get to travel to new places and see new things.

The real benefit begins when we return home.

Being away gives us a perspective that we can't have when we're up close and personal with day-to-day issues.

Returning to the routine, we're re-energized with a new way of thinking. We see old problems in a new light, and are willing to explore new ways of accomplishing the same old tasks.

The same is true for the community as a whole.

We're ready to put the water and sewer issued behind us (although monthly bills will be a constant reminder), and we're about to take a serious look at a new jail and public safety center.

Before we do, however, it's good to step back and take a good look at what we have right here.

City Council members and onlookers had a rare chance to experience an outsider's perspective Monday night, with the interview of a city manager candidate.

The candidate, Kurt R. Fritsch, offered ideas about McCook's condition and potential future issues, after having served a turbulent term as city manager of fast-growing North Las Vegas.

The most important idea he offered is that of public involvement in major decisions, such as annexation and economic development. Getting all parties involved, including those inside and outside of the city, is necessary for progress, he said.

And while the city can provide seed money for economic development, it can't be the largest partner in the picture, he contended.

Fritsch also offered a bit of wisdom about relations with the public.

"People want to vent their issues," he said. "Ninety-nine percent of the time, if you let them vent and sit across the table with them, you can accomplish quite a bit."

City officials should be ready to "give a little bit," he said, especially in "gray" issues.

Whether or not Fritsch is hired, we would do well to heed much of his advice.

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