In my opinion, consolidation where true cost savings can be measured in real dollars is worth exploring. For example, centralized purchasing and distribution of maintenance, construction, office supplies and other high use items like road salt, municipal vehicles and furniture can accomplish this goal. Programs that are already in place could be expanded to further reduce spending. Broad brush consolidation does not guarantee efficiency and absorbing smaller, more accessible levels of government would create an even larger bureaucratic nightmare that would be counter productive to constituent service.

I was the first Onondaga County Legislators representing part of Clay to publically support the merger of the Clay Police Department and the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department.  This showed a real tax savings to the residents while maintaining the public service and policing needs of the Town.  Increased efficiency cannot be measured by cost alone. Without a clear perspective of the challenges facing different departments and the employees throughout government this will be difficult to comprehend and measure. I am committed to looking and new and creative ways to reduce spending while maintaining a high level of service in all areas of government.