Over reaching-planks

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* The legislative body, such as Pittsburgh City Council, should not focus upon areas that are wildly beyond the duty of that legislative body. Resolutions on topics such as foreign policy and nominations of Supreme Court Justices are out of bounds and a waste of time.
* When Pittsburgh's City Council makes a legislative body decision and associated proclamation that is so partisan and so party-specific, council becomes a wedge for residents in the city, region and nation. The state Republicans won't be willing to listen to various requests from city officials in the future. The federal Republican's won't be willing to listen, yet alone help, either. And, city residents who are of the other parties and city residents who are independent, will not feel at home here, in their own city. Finally, people from other parts of the world see Pittsburgh as a one-party-town and won't be eager to do business or relocate here. 
* As the legislative body toils over areas that are outside the realm of its operation, it wastes time and effort. It is one thing to squander the body's political capital on foolishness where it has no sway, but it is another to invest time so that matters that really count within the city are given less attention and thought. 
:I think city council needs to do a better job of keeping its eye on the ball.
* Foreign policy is not only beyond the duty and domain of those on Pittsburgh's city council, it's beyond their competence as well. 
* As a member of city council, I'll lead with an open mind and study issues before speaking out in such an abrasive way without some knowledge and study.
* As a member of city council, I'll try to prevent actions from being passed and try to get council to focus upon areas within its domain.
* As a member of city council, I will try to encourage individual members of city council to make individual proclamations about all areas of our political life from international, federal and human rights issues. Those statements should come from individual citizens, elected or not. Everyone has a right and duty to help preserve our freedom and liberty. But the bulk of those efforts need to come from bodies, organizations and associations elsewhere and not directly from City Council.
== Links==
* Over reaching
Category: Platform_Planks_from_Mark_Rauterkus category: democracy