As it turns out, the world did not end in 2012, and the Maya did not correctly predict doomsday.
Now that we have all let out a deep sigh of relief, we can begin to worry about 2013. Here are things the West Valley can do in 2013 to build on the successes of 2012 and keep the region moving forward.
Promote transparency
Surprise and Glendale residents found out their city officials, working behind closed doors, had fumbled city finances in 2012.
The cities then grew more transparent. They need to continue their efforts with workshops that open budget talks and audit findings to the public.
Glendale created the “Follow Your Money” online public system that tracks the movement of city money. Surprise also launched its online tool “Notify Me,” allowing residents to get e-mail messages directly from officials.
Both are good starts, and all West Valley cities and towns should resolve to be transparent in the new year.
