The Control Boards: Time for an Objective Review and Real Reforms

Abstract

Justifications for the Buffalo and Erie County control boards usually depend on two false premises: (i) the problem is “bloated” and “inefficient” city and county government; and (ii) the solution is to add another layer of government composed of non-elected, state-appointed officials. The typical commentary lumps all local elected officials together, ignoring large differences between different politicians and between the city and county. It ignores the big structural problems that we face – most of them caused by state and federal policies – and instead pins blame on the closest scapegoats it can find.