Blog note: this letter references the grand jury.
I rarely agree with Independent Journal political columnist Dick Spotswood’s opinions, but I completely agree with his column on special districts (“Marin education board would be good start in cutting special districts, Aug. 18).
Special districts were established historically from perceived needs for limited-purpose entities separate from other local governments. These histories are irrelevant in the 21st century. The idea seems to have taken particular hold in the West, although they exist nationwide.
As Spotswood points out, in addition to a county government and 11 cities/towns, there are 31 special districts in Marin for services such as health, fire, sanitation and water. The argument is then made that these services require special attention, which cannot be supplied by the city/county structure. The result is duplicative administrations serving similar geographic areas.
It is insane that Marin with approximately 260,000 residents, has 17 school districts, including three districts serving the San Rafael area, as well as other districts which each serve fewer than 500 students. Los Angeles and San Francisco counties each have one school district. While these districts might not be the best run, at least they have one mission, not dissected by geographic interests. Entrenched, distasteful views, such as those manifested in the Sausalito Marin City School District, might also have a lesser chance of implementation, if exposed to a wider audience.
Perhaps Spotswood is simply being provocative, but his views have previously been stated by the Marin Civil Grand Jury. I believe nothing will change, in spite of the likelihood of streamlining and cost savings. Communities will argue for retaining their autonomy, elected district directors will want to retain their powers, and employees will be fearful of job losses.
My dream is for the establishment of a Good Government Task Force to review all special districts, receive public input, then mandate changes.
August 21, 2019
Marin Independent Journal
Letter from Jennifer Goldfinger, Novato
No comments:
Post a Comment