Lysander — To the editor:

One of my greatest blessings, which I have been deeply honored to receive, has been the opportunity to represent and advocate for my community. I interpret my role as a town councilor to not only represent the wonderful Lysander community, but also to inform the public on issues that affect their daily lives. It is for this reason I would like to humbly thank my colleague, Lysander Town Councilor Bob Geraci, for publicly raising the issue of Consensus in the Baldwinsville Messenger’s Feb. 15 article, ?“Will Consensus fix Onondaga County’s problems?”? [page 4] Councilor Geraci hit the nail on the head and raised several serious questions that need to be considered and thought about. Due to the importance of the issue, as well as my duty toward an informed public, I wish to put forth my perspectives on the matter.

The first concern I’ll bring forward is on page 23 of ?“The Options Report & Preliminary Committee Recommendations.”? Here, under point 6, “Moving to Appointed Street/ Highway Administrators instead of Elected Officials,” Consensus recommends eliminating the position of an elected highway superintendent and instead creating a position in which a local municipality can appoint whomever they choose. As a public servant, I report directly to you, the taxpayers. This allows your elected representatives to do what’s right, and represent you even when things are difficult and the situation isn’t ideal. This is why I always remind people that as a public servant, I work for you. I strongly believe it is imperative to keep elected positions elected. By allowing positions like your highway superintendent to remain elected you guarantee that you, and you alone, are their boss. If you are not thrilled with one of your elected officials, you can choose whether they stay or go! I know I am preaching to the choir for many of you, because in 2012 you overwhelmingly came out and voted to make sure elected positions remain elected.

continued — My second concern is on page 24, when discussing solid waste:

3) In towns with no current involvement, develop service districts and bid collection services in aggregate to drive down costs for individual property owners who are paying direct to private haulers on a property by property basis.

This simply means that instead of being able to choose whom you hire to pick up your garbage, the government will choose for you. I believe in personal liberty. I believe each and every one of you has a better understanding for what is best for you, your family and your individual situation. I don’t believe the government needs to bother you interfering with minutiae. I believe that competition, not more government intervention, is what is going to lower costs for the community.

I would ask those in positions of authority to seriously consider my concerns as you move forward in your discussions. I would invite the residents of this wonderful town to join me in this dialogue, so that I can best represent each and every one of you.

Roman J. Diamond

Lysander Town Councilor