Metro Citizen's Bill of Rights reveals: You're a "customer"

Mayor Greg Fischer recently released his "Citizen's Bill of Rights". It is published on the city's website for your convenience. The Bill of Rights is loaded with "corporate-speak" and double-talking jive. It is surely corrupt communication.

It is my opinion citizens are not "customers" and should not be treated as such. They are the "owners".

While a detailed Bill of Rights for citizens is a good thing, the wrong approach was taken on this one.

The text of the Bill of Rights can be found after the jump...

http://www.louisvilleky.gov/Mayor/citizen_bill_of_rights.htm

Greg Fischer's
Louisville Metro Citizen's Bill of Rights

METRO GOVERNMENT WAS CREATED TO SERVE THE PEOPLE OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, NOT OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. AS MAYOR, I WILL INSURE ALL CITIZENS RECEIVE FAIR, ETHICAL, AND EQUAL TREATMENT AND GUARANTEE THE FOLLOWING RIGHTS:

I. CONVENIENT ACCESS
Every citizen has the right to prompt, efficient service from Metro Government. As mayor, I will work to expand the services available at county government centers and on the internet to meet the demands of the people of Louisville Metro. It should be easy to do business with Metro Government.


II. TRUTHFUL ANSWERS AND EXPLANATIONS
Every citizen has the right to straightforward and honest information in connection with any significant decision made by the mayor. I will publish and make available the reasons behind my decisions on all significant public matters.


III. QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE
Every citizen has the right to be treated like a valued customer, with dignity and respect. As taxpayers, citizens are customers of Metro Government and are entitled to courteous, professional service from employees who are intent on solving their problems.


IV. TIMELY NOTICE
Every citizen has the right to advance notice of projects and proposals affecting his or her home, business, or neighborhood. As mayor, I will provide citizens with the knowledge necessary to participate in local affairs.


V. INCLUSIVE AND TRANSPARENT PROCESS
Every citizen has the right to be involved in government and have his or her voice heard at Louisville Metro Hall. As mayor, I will create a culture of inclusiveness and maintain open communications with the community. To understand diverse viewpoints, answer questions, and promote dialogue, I will keep regular open office hours and hold countywide community forums to meet with citizens and business owners and listen to their concerns.


VI. FOCUS ON RESULTS
Every citizen has the right to a team of Metro employees that strives to be the best in the world in job performance. As mayor, my leadership team will model and set a standard for diversity, joy in work, and the pursuit of continuous and breakthrough improvement.


The purpose of this Bill of Rights is to empower the citizens of Jefferson County to join as equal partners in Metro Government. Together, we have the ability to improve the quality of life for all citizens in every corner of our community. I commit to being your steadfast partner in pursuit of this noble goal.

Mayor Greg Fischer