What is popular is not always right…

This was, for me as a teenager in South Buffalo, an annoying sign that hung on our kitchen. Along with “it’s what you do with what you’ve got,” they were my teacher mother’s way of reminding us to maintain a strong backbone, practice ethical conduct and be of sound moral character in our daily activities.

Breaking this one down after all these years away from home, and it really rings true, especially for those in the field of local government management. Advancing a tax cut, or a tax increase. Making the tough decision to abandon an inefficient or redundant program, with people’s livelihoods on the line, in favor of privatization. A staffing decision where the players are related to Board members. Sometimes the most difficult ones are when you know the exact truths and all the facts and the people/public do not, and the actions taken off of those facts are wildly unpopular.

Bottom line - do what is right in the face of strife. Be ethical in a slimy political world. Stand your ground. Do not cater to groupthink. Exercise independent thought.