Tonight someone is going to be appointed to finish out Joe LaPorte's term as Alderman. Having gone through the process myself, I'm uncomfortable with the process as it presently is. Holding an election would be the best way to do it. The people of the aldermanic precinct should vote for their representative. Oh, I know that this democracy thing requiring voting is such a hassle. After all, American Idol or Dancing With the Stars might be on that Tuesday!
As it is, having the council voting to add one to their group can be looked at two ways. One way is that they can recognize political genius that will benefit all of Waukesha. The other way is that some may vote for the person least likely to make a fuss for a while and get in the way of progress. It probably is something between those extremes, but I wonder....
Think about it. The people getting their alderman appointed have absolutely no say in who is about to represent them!
If for some good reason, other than expense, there cannot be a regular election of replacement aldermen, then I would suggest that a citizen committee be created from the taxpayer list in that aldermanic district. These people can then interview the candidates, basing their selection on what is important for THEIR district.
Having someone other than the people appoint their representatives was halted 232 years ago in the colonies. Let's not forget our history.
