"I was directed to refer all airport business inquiries to Mohawk Valley EDGE for its exclusive consideration and action, despite its lack of aeronautical expertise and conflicts of interest."While we might not be privy to the details of airport actions, EDGE's seeming involvement in everything "airport" and the public machinations of county-level politicians over many years make clear that all decisions are being made by a clique of local insiders. . . . the 21st century Oneida County re-incarnation of the early 20th century clique of Utica mill owners.
This blogger critiqued Mr. Gray's remarks back in 2008 when he first came aboard: "New Commissioner, Old Vision" . . . and, to his credit, he responded (see the comments to the post). This was someone who took his status as a public servant seriously! Unfortunately, Oneida County does not want public servants in management, only "yes men" who do as they are told.
And unfortunately Oneida County taxpayers have been deprived the benefits of the expertise that they hired.
4 comments:
Tammany Hall is alive and well in Oneida County. Boss Tweed (a.k.a) Tony Picente has a firm hand on the reigns of power and isn't about to let go.We are so lucky to have him as the "man" who makes this county what it is!
After reading the editorial this morning, I couldn’t help but lament on how we all said that there was something fishy with the relocation of the former Oneida County Airport that was located in Whitestown. Poor Mr. Gray didn’t realize that his position was to be a figurehead that collects a county paycheck and remain in a scapegoat role to accept the blame if anything goes wrong at Griffiss. By their apathy, the taxpayers have surrendered their money and control of the county airport’s operations over to EDGE. This is the expenditure of county tax dollars devoid of any voter accountability. It’s “taxation without representation”. . . Again. It’s as if history has taught us nothing. . . Tea anyone?
and why do you think the last Commissioner left?
Hint: It wasn't for a better opportunity ....
The airport needs to be placed under the oversight of an airport commission or authority comprised of representatives from the Rome City Council and the Oneida County Board of Legislators with a professional airport manager as the CEO. If we cannot remove the airport from political influences, perhaps we can at least dilute the politics.
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