Elitists
How to Identify Them!
by Ron West
Prior to the last election, I made reference to elitists who were involved in our local government for their own self interest. Unfortunately, my amateurish writing seemed to indicate that I was referring to specific neighborhoods rather than the individuals I was actually trying to reference. I think it is worthwhile to once again try to define who the elitists are that are running our city. My own estimate is that a somewhat closed group of around 250 or fewer people are in full control of North Richland Hills, Texas. Their names are a relative "Who's Who" and very well known in our city. To their credit, they are well funded, organized and active in all local politics - including city, school and county levels. Perhaps you will recognize them by the following traits they share:
1) They think they know what is best for you without asking you.
2) They typically think that your money is an unlimited bucket that they can dip into at will. Referencing #1, they know better how to spend your money than you do.
3) Many of these folks are quite rich so that higher taxes (which many of them have methods to avoid) are always affordable (for them without regard for others.)
4) They think that the laws they make are for others and not for themselves.
5) They are quite afraid of providing full information on any subject knowing that the majority of an informed electorate would oppose their actions.
6) They tacitly prefer a non-participating, apathetic electorate. Unless large numbers vote they are almost assured of continued control of governmental bodies.
7) They will use misinformation and blackmail to achieve re-election. While it is a credit to governmental employees that they actually vote, they cannot ignore the threats of layoffs or pay cuts from the bureaucrats so they are essentially a block vote for incumbents in favor of ever higher taxes.
8) These folks will bend the intent of any law to achieve their personal pet projects or goals.
9) The overwhelming need for personal glory and recognition often causes these folks to support the building of monuments to their egos.
10) As a group, these folks self interests are more important than your rights under law.
11) Misinformation and lies from these folks are often couched in "statements of opinion" to avoid legal consequences of slander or liable.
12) Bureaucratic power is the most important driving force of the elitist.
13) Titles, committee and board memberships are very important and more valuable if they require no work.
14) Political office and connections to elected officials is seen as a method for personal financial gain.
15) For the most part, these folks think that most voters are just plain stupid or at best misguided.
16) They do not like to be criticized at all!
There are other traits of these folks but just remember they know what is best for you without your input. Remember that they do not want you to know about, criticize, examine or question their actions. If someone in office in NRH resents your questions, they surely qualify for the title of Elitist!
The only solution to the elitist form of closed government is the active participation in such government by an informed and active electorate. A sleepy, apathetic electorate virtually insures the continuation of control by these folks. A local columnist initiated an "ASK A BUNCH OF QUESTIONS" campaign that was poorly received by our locally elected officials but which makes a lot of sense. If you have a question, others have the same question. Ask It! If you think your one vote won't count, you can only be right if you stay home and don't vote. These elitists are counting on you not voting in order to continue their power and reign over you. Your vote and the individual - one by one - vote of your neighbors and friends is the only way we can elect responsive public servants rather the elitist, arrogant, non-responsive elected officials we now have in North Richland Hills, Texas.