Larry Sykes speaks with Toledo Blade editorial board members during a forum with Toledo City Council candidates in October.
The Blade/Andy Morrison
Buy This Image
In the Dec. 3 article, “Toledo governed by council of elders,” Toledo City Councilman Larry Sykes said: “When you’re talking about running a city, you have so many moving components that you want somebody that has some sense, some knowledge.”
He was implying that younger individuals lack that sense and knowledge, which is not only laughable, but also sadly symptomatic of the problems of Toledo politics.
Perhaps Toledo voters will recognize this and elect some younger council members who can bring fresh, new ideas to the table rather than focusing on maintaining the status quo of business as usual.
GARY FRANKS
Perrysburg
McCain turns back on his principles
I was especially disappointed when the vote for the Republican-led tax cut was taken and John McCain, in spite of his impassioned plea for regular order upon his return from cancer surgery, voted for the bill. The bill was voted on under anything but regular order. Evidently the maverick is no more.
PATRICK JOYCE
Monclova
Ohio needs a strong governor
This coming year in Ohio, we will be voting for a new governor. While some headway has been made under Gov. John Kasich, there is still a lot to do.
Ohio’s population has declined in recent years, and we are dealing with an awful drug epidemic. If Ohio wants to compete with states like Texas, Indiana, and South Carolina for jobs, we need to be more business friendly. The tax code needs to be simplified or, better yet, the income tax should be eliminated entirely.
For too long in Columbus, there has been too much “go along to get along” among the two parties. While the Republicans have a lock on state government, time and again there seems to be a lot of timidness on their part. Frankly, I am tired of it.
I would rather vote for a candidate who stands up for strong principles and loses the election, than have another wishy-washy Republican win. If mediocrity is the choice, then count me out. I’ll just stay home.
BRIAN SCSAVNICKI
Perrysburg