Statement from Michael Hennessy on his resignation as Minority Leader
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WKTV News
Story Created:
Nov 10, 2009 at 1:48 PM EST
Story Updated:
Nov 10, 2009 at 1:51 PM EST
November 10, 2009
Fellow Caucus Members & Candidates:
Let me begin by thanking the members of this caucus for the honor of being the minority leader for the past two years. In many ways it was a great experience for me and I am proud of the numerous issues we tackled and the accountability that we demanded as the loyal opposition party.
The word “loyal” is the operative word and I don’t mean to the majority party or the minority party, but to the constituents of Oneida County who bestow their trust in us. They are the people who pay our way and are often forgotten in the process of governing.
For the most part, during the past two years we spoke in defense of taxpayers by forcing reductions in the property tax proposal, voting down a bond proposal, tabling a motor vehicle registration fee, and stopping a seriously flawed settlement with the Oneida Enterprises. We should all be proud of these things, no matter the results of the recent election.
Beyond these examples, we asked the tough questions that taxpayers deserved to have answered. We questioned and then changed the county’s procurement policy. We sought answers to the airport problems and demanded and got a business plan. We saw a nonprofit benefitting from a sweetheart lease and we held all parties accountable. That’s what makes the difference between a country club and a government that works for the best interests of the taxpayers we are serving.
This past election presented a chance to make history and change county government more than ever before. While we lost the opportunity to become the majority party, a mere 400 votes in a Republican year kept us from our goal. Having been outspent by a 3 to 1 margin, we owe no apology for our efforts.
With all that said, I live for another day, but not as Minority Leader of this caucus. I will complete this year’s term, but not be a candidate for the next term. An election to name my replacement will be held at our first meeting in December.
Once again, for those who have supported me in the past, I thank you and for all of our candidates, both incumbents and challengers of the status quo, I will always remember and appreciate your efforts and sacrifices. You have aspired to make this a better community.
Sincerely,
Michael J. Hennessy
Mjh/jt
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