The
recent Journal/Sentinel Editorial pertaining to the DNR vs. Menard’s doesn’t go far enough in it’s call for
a thorough public discussion” in this case.
A thorough public discussion?!The facts: Menard’s wants to build a distribution center adding approximately 800 jobs in Wisconsin. The DNR wants to protect “ a one acre migratory wildfowl landing spot”.
The process: 3 years of attempted negotiation between Menard’s and the DNR. The Governor even attends a meeting!
The end result: Neither party flinches and the migratory wildfowl’s one acre landing spot is “saved”, and the Menard’s Distribution Centers (and jobs) go to Iowa and Ohio.
Tell me what “a thorough public discussion” will accomplish now? Maybe the posturing elected and State officials can defend their decision while heart-warming overhead slides of “migratory wildfowl” sequence in the background? Heck - maybe a candidate for office can “glam-on” to the issue to bolster their campaign.
STOP!! I can’t take another “discussion!” Where’s the accountability for what’s happened here? I and many others want/demand a plan of action! Positive stories of DNR cooperation and problem-solving are far out-numbered by legendary showings of obstinacy and single-mindedness. And anyone who has or is working with the DNR on an issue knows they have every excuse, usually starting with “we are understaffed”, for being non-responsive and tardy. Why do those excuses work in Government but not in the private sector?
It’s time a different method of arbitration is attempted. A mediator (obviously he/she cannot be politically appointed…) willing to protect the public interests of the natural resources of this great State while respecting the taxpayers as well?…An enforced mandate for timely review and resolution?…How about plain, old-fashioned common sense?
How does this relate to Waukesha? Follow Mayor Larry Nelson’s follow-through on his campaign pledge to gain water rights to sustain our area. His reasonable, common sense, respectful approach has gotten the entire Midwest’s attention. The Mayor has positively framed the issue where other communities are now sitting-up and realizing they too could be in need in the near future. Meetings now focus on solving this all too real, immediate problem. There are many challenges remaining, but the Mayor has set the tone with his earnest discourse.
A thorough public discussion?! Get past that - Find an immediate, non-partisan (that would be refreshing!), responsive solution before Wisconsin is embarrassed again and again.
