Posted on 10/21/2002 9:22:39 AM PDT by Tumbleweed_Connection
ayor Michael Bloomberg seems not to care that he can be a lightning rod for frustration. He matter-of-factly talks about the fiscal pain to come for New York City, offering no sugar coating. That, as New York is learning, is the Bloomberg way.
The mayor has been warning in recent days that property taxes may rise, transit fares may increase, tolls may be imposed for East River bridges, and city services — perhaps even fire and police departments — may be hit hard with cuts, all aimed at closing an expected budget gap of some $5 billion. It's bad news and he gives it to the city less like a politician and more like a pathologist.
He is also clearly unmoved by hecklers who do not like his proposed ban on smoking in restaurants and bars. It was with similar single-mindedness that he decided to invite actors from "The Sopranos" to the Columbus Day parade, causing a rumble with Italian-American leaders that might have been avoided if he had consulted with them.
New Yorkers, despite their fractiousness, do like a mayor with moxie, and now is a very good time to have someone in city hall who doesn't mind delivering unpleasant truths. Knowing how to take the heat is practically a mayoral job description, and Mr. Bloomberg has filled the bill. But all that decisiveness can verge on insensitivity. He hurts feelings and starts fights that aren't necessary, like the current war between the mayor's office and the public advocate, Betsy Gotbaum.
While it appears that the honeymoon is over, Mr. Bloomberg didn't become mayor to spend his time publicly canoodling with anyone. His supporters point out — at least once a day — that he comes without the strings of special interests, having personally financed his own campaign. Still, Mr. Bloomberg must not appear aloof as he charges full speed ahead with his agenda.
City workers, who will certainly be asked for givebacks, may do so more willingly if they know the mayor understands the problems of working people caught in a slumping economy. Likewise, homeowners and commuters may more easily digest a tax offered with regret and as a last resort. That's not political pandering. It's a mark of leadership.
He is also clearly unmoved by hecklers who do not like his proposed ban on smoking in restaurants and bars.I wonder if the RINO is moved by the decreased revenue from cigarette sales subsequent to the the city's and state's new tobacco taxes, now that everyone's buying over the Internet.
I'm sure that all the little mom and pop stores that will be put out of will not help the city.Bloomberg's probably hoping they'll start carrying healthier products ... like Haagen Dazs : )
Amen! And the Reservations and Roll Your Owns! Stick it to Mayor BloomingIdiot BIG time!
It's nothing new. All across the US the states are hurting with their budgets. So, they are using the Tobacco Taxes and the Tobacco Settlement money to help balance their budgets.
Balance the whole state on the backs of the smokers. 20-30% of the states smoke, so sure! Go after the lowest on the pole to keep the Big Guts in the style they have become accustomed.
But! It's not working. People are not sheep. The people always shop cheap, it's the American Way!
FLORIDIANS! VOTE NO ON AMENDMENT 6!!!!
That IS bad news. But you figure, if only 25-30% of the people in the state smoke, we are always on the losing end of the battle. If the anti-smokers get out all their friends and family to help vote a smoking ban in, then where do the small percentage of the people stand? They don't.
But thank you for not spending your hard earned money in a place that doesn't offer the Freedom of Choice for all peoples. We do not, either!
^5 (High Five)! "They" don't think we are serious. That we will get "used" to going outside to smoke. I have news for them. The more smokers see that other smokers aren't going to take this anymore, it will catch on. Tell your friends!
Even if a person doesn't smoke, they surely have to see this as our rights eroding.
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