The situation is similar to the late 1980s Soviet Union when Gorbachav began talking about the need to change a badly flawed and ineffective Soviet government. But instead of reform, which was all Gorbachav wanted, what followed was the total collapse of the old power structure, including the fall of Gorbachav himself. Once the system's flaws were admitted and in the open, there was no where left for its leaders to hide. The same thing could happen in Jefferson. The undercurrents for change seem to be growing.
Many new residents complain about a lack of city leadership and are asking a lot of questions.
Even among long-time residents, there's a new sense that the time has come for some dramatic changes in city leadership. Monday's meeting over the police pay rates is just one example of the city's flawed decision-making process. It highlighted the real need for professional management and perhaps, the need for some new blood in city leadership. The winds of change cannot be controlled. Once unleashed, they blow on everyone in their path.