A fool and his money
Via Rauterkus, I learn that Pittsburgh City Council President Gene Ricciardi thinks the city should apply for a slots license so that it can use casino proceeds to eliminate property taxes, pay down debt, build a new arena, improve infrastructure and cure cancer. (OK, so I made up that last one.) I have a measured, thoughtful response:
YOU CAN'T EVEN KEEP THIS CITY AFLOAT...WHAT MAKES YOU THINK YOU CAN RUN A CASINO?????????
I really need to learn to express myself.
posted by Jonathan Potts at
7:52 PM
4 Comments:
Yeah, Gene-o is out of his friggin' mind here.
Now, I'm no lawyer, but I'm pretty sure that under Local Government Law precedent [Dillon's Rule], a municipality isn't allowed to get into the casino business, unless specifically authorized by the home-rule charter (at least in Pittsburgh's case).
OK, maybe he's not crazy, but just ignorant of the law...
Wait... wasn't he just elected a magistrate?
Hoo boy!
8:26 PM
I think he can do less damage in that role, quite frankly.
8:43 AM
Yes, he's my councilman and he decided it was time to "retire" to the position of magistrate.
(sigh)
The woman who was the magistrate who he beat at the polls, Eileen Conroy, may now run for his office.
6:28 AM
Thanks for the props.
We agree on the issue.
I've given a few examples at my blog (like the failure of oversight for an ice rink on city property, outdoor pools, etc.) But there is more to harp upon: The city can't even put out the necessary SALT BOXES in the winter to melt snow on the hills.
The other instance where Gene R is making a mistake is the non-profit deal for $5-million. Gene wants that deal to be FOREVER. Only $100k has come in so far this year. How about getting this year's done before it is stretched to FOREVER.
I expect to run for Gene's open seat on Council after he retires to the bench.
1:14 PM
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Home