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June 14, 2010
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Regional government consolidation? Sparks not interested!
By, Sparks Mayor Geno R. Martini
Recent talk of consolidation between the City of Reno and Washoe County continues to make headlines. And from time to time, my colleagues from both governing bodies hint that Sparks should step up and be a partner in consolidation efforts.
Frankly, it is no surprise consolidation remains a topic of discussion during the difficult financial struggles of today. The City of Sparks, and others, have studied this subject numerous times over. The fact is, consolidation is not a common occurrence and results in more failed attempts than successful efforts.
Time and time again, we have concluded that no cost savings can be passed on to our residents by consolidating with another government. The notion that bigger government is a more efficient government is wrong. Just look at the federal government and state government.
The City of Sparks is in a position, being closest to our residents, to be the most efficient because we are the most accountable. We certainly support efficiencies and shared services where-ever possible to save our residents' hard-earned tax dollars. But our strength is our ability to have 100 percent oversight of city funds spent on services.
Let me say this as clearly as I can: The Sparks City Council and I are committed to maintaining the City of Sparks as a full-service city by providing necessary public services such as public works, parks and recreation programs, municipal and legal functions, and public safety that include police and fire fighting services.
This is what our citizens demand. Year after year, Sparks citizens voice their opposition to a consolidated government for Washoe County. According to the City's 2010 Public Attitude Survey, 67 percent do not support a consolidated regional government. Our residents love living in Sparks, appreciate the public services the city provides, and support the city's own identity.
Our message is simple. If Reno and Washoe want to merge, they should. But leave Sparks out. We're not interested.
RESOLUTION 2776 - Since January 2002, the Sparks City Council has supported Resolution No. 2776 titled, "A Resolution on Regional Government Consolidation." While the City Council supports regional efforts to improve quality and fiscal efficiencies of municipal services, it does not support any regional government consolidation that would change the form of government of the City of Sparks.