Well, I guess it's just a matter of perspective for individual lawmakers, the media and taxpayers. What exactly is your definition of reform?

To some, reform meant toppling the Erie County Legislature which they blamed for all our fiscal woes. They believed the Legislature caved in to Giambra's spending spree, blinded by promises of patronage jobs and member item money (pork) to take home to their districts.

To others, reform meant electing new faces that could hold their own against political and special interest groups.

Still others believed reform meant changing the face of government. This included eliminating the County Executive and hiring a non-partisan, professional manager to operate government efficiently and effectively.

So, where exactly are we on reform?

I, for one, believe in all the reform concepts I just mentioned. And, I thought there were many more on the new Legislature who felt the same way. This week, I found out I was mistaken. I didn't realize how deep reaching the power of the political party in Erie County is. Now, I am not naïve, but I did think that as elected officials, with the responsibility of appointing the new commissioner to the Erie County Water Authority, we might actually have some part in the selection process. After all, the statute says so, but I guess not!

The Water Authority was created as a separate government entity. The only input the public has is when the Legislature appoints a commissioner. Those Commissioners, by themselves, have the ability to appoint more political patronage in the Water Authority than all of Erie County Government put together. Commissioners don't run for election and they are not accountable to the public. Therefore when we appointed a new Commissioner last week, we Legislators had the utmost responsibility to select the most qualified individual who was dedicated to reforming the practices of the Water Authority.

Instead, the Legislature continued the practice of electing a commissioner who will be, in essence, the puppet of the party.

I tried to submit the name of a qualified candidate who would bring independence and experience to the position. Unfortunately, not only were my efforts derailed, but I have been bad-mouthed by party insiders for disobedience; my candidate was unfairly maligned; and I was told by others that I'd been "banned from the reservation" for not towing the party line.

Harsh words, indeed.

But, as I have clearly maintained from the beginning, I will always put what I think is in the best interest of the public above political expediency.

Make no mistake, this appointment to the patronage rich Water Authority was all about political clout in hiring. It was not about good government, not about the best candidate, and certainly not about reform.

So, is the political party apparatus really to blame? After all, many people get involved in politics to get a job. And a party leader, in order to attract volunteers and to build the party, has to be able to give out jobs.

I can understand how political leaders have to keep their troops in line, especially after seeing someone stand up and dissent. It's like saying to them, "Don't disagree with me or we will malign you too." But if we don't do something about this, we will never change.

This pivotal vote was a defining moment for the Legislature. Will we as Legislators make decisions that will truly make a difference, or will we be relegated to submitting superficial proposals with no substance? Will we vote for what is best for the County, or to fulfill a "hidden bargain" with the party?

Each Legislator will have to make their decision. Will it be worth it?

You will be the judge.

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