I have, I am a member of Clout.
But one fact that seems to escape many who talk about is the economy good or bad. National numbers do not matter to most. Remember Tip O'Niel? I disagreed with him on most things but I agree with one thing he said, "All politics is local." I also think that for most Americans all economics is local. My check book balance, my debt ratio, and how much my family nets in out pay checks are my leading economic indicators. If I think they are going well and my job is secure then the economy is great, if not I worry. And that is how most are. And most I know are getting cautious.
Yep, "All politics is local", is a great observation.
IMHO, it's only a matter of time before the outrage about property tax rates reach critical mass in this city and something is done.
It's no secret how mismanaged this city, and its surrounding municipalities, are. (i.e. mayor's office bonus fiasco)