If there is anything that keeps a Mayor awake at night, it is events like those evolving in Ferguson, Missouri.
Can it happen in Salado? Maybe not to the degree it happened in Ferguson, but it can happen.
It does not take much to go from anger to rage in any situation. How long, for example, does it take a car driver to go from mad to absolute road rage? Not hours, not minutes but seconds.
What are the lessons learned from Ferguson?
1. Have a plan for all seasons -- riots, natural disaster, accidents, controversial issues, etc. No community is exempt from unexpected hardships. Train citizens to take an active role in speaking to and overcoming serious situations. In Ferguson, there seems to be no respected, rational citizen who lives in the community and can calmly speak for and to the residents.
2. Communicate. Allow people to vet their feelings peacefully. Psychologists and Sociologists who study conflict agree, " many angry situations burn themselves out as anger and frustration are vented." Listen well before speaking.
3. Do what is right, what is honest, what is fair. Period. No agenda, no manipulation, no lying. Trust broken is like putting together a broken drinking glass. Cannot be done.
4. Do everything in a timely manner. Procrastination only makes the problem bigger. Indecision only paralyses.
5. Intellect and academia are important, but so is common sense. If it does not feel right, it probably isn't. Don't make decisions based on emotion.
6. Look at all sides; understand the issues; and be willing to "go the second mile" to find a solution. See the big picture not just a self-imposed snapshot. If wrong has been done, admit it. Forgiveness will come easier and quicker.
There are many other Lessons Learned. Ferguson will be a great case study for Mayors, Governors, and Presidents.
It is also a great case study for us.
VR/Skip
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