The Martin Chronicles spends a great deal of time reporting on the corruption and incompetence of Villa Hills malfeasant Mayor Mike Martin and others in his entourage. At times, we are criticized for being too hard on them. Those criticisms usually represent the classic tactic of "attacking the messenger" as a way of deflecting attention away from the problems. We will make no apologies for our efforts. They will continue.
We have also made it clear that we believe the mess was made possible-in part-by an inattentive community that ignored the obvious warning signs of what Martin would do if the voters put him in the mayor's office. That belief has not changed. Martin's narrow 2010 victory has led to a stream of embarrassments for Villa Hills. This disaster doesn't represent the first time voters gave themselves a self-inflicted wound however. And we're sure it won't be the last. In fact, it happens frequently.
Having written that, there are also many good people doing admirable things in the Villa Hills area. A great deal of time, talent and treasure has been donated to improve the community, aid those in need, promote civic pride, support our troops, benefit education and memorialize our veterans and victims of September 11, 2001. People should be commended for all of these efforts. Even though almost all of them do these things wanting no recognition.
The recent fundraiser for a local family is a great example of a community rallying to provide support. The upcoming St. Joe's Church Festival is another instance where scores of people give their time in an effort to showcase their parish, support their fine elementary school and provide a weekend of fun for thousands of people. All of these ongoing efforts are examples of the best in people.
There is more good news. The voters will get the opportunity to fix things in 2014. If the voters choose correctly, the local police department can be repaired and the surge in local crime better addressed. A comprehensive street repair program can be revived. Wasteful spending on legal actions and squads of attorneys can be stopped. Sensible things to promote more efficiencies and economies between Villa Hills, neighboring Cities and County government can be pursued. Most importantly? Faith in the positive power of local government can restored and the senseless strife, backbiting and division reduced. Never eliminated mind you. But certainly reduced.
But these things can only happen if the City chooses new leadership in 455 days.
