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Time to form a shadow government. For instance, let the losers in ward 1, 2, 4 and at large form a shadow government, Lou can represent Ward 3. Let the losers work on an opposition platform monthly before the public. Lets see all the actions of the previous month be reviewed in a public meeting monthly where the losers can discuss and vote on matters as if they themselves were in office.

While this would require work and difficult decisions on the budget it would hold the elected council's feet to the fire. Then over time let the losers who are not going to run in 2011, be replaced with a slate of individuals who seek to be nominated for the next round.

In sum it is easy to carp from the outside, but perhaps the most instructive measure would be for those who seek a voice should show now how they would lead the city out of this mess.

The meeting could take place in brothers dining room at say the first Monday of the month, and could come with diner and act as a fund raiser and be aired on cable. I bet those who attend as an audience might be willing to pay say $35. a head and get one free cocktail with a choice from among three entrees.

Loyal voters could assign themselves as staff to each fake council member to act as researchers and assemble documents for public consideration.

In sum, the voting is about power and ego but if people really wanted to make a better city and focused group of citizens could drive the Council into action....just as the rich property owners with their own motives have done.

In sum loyal opposition if organized with the right motives can pretty well chart the cities future outside of office given the motives and skill set of those elected.