Smart Giving
Spring 2015
a publication of the central new york community foundation
Opinions Sought on Government Efficiency in this issue
Oswego Foundation Reaches Initial Goal page 3
Recent research revealed that every Onondaga County resident is served by at least two of 36 general purpose governments. Nearly five dozen separate agencies perform fire protection services in Onondaga County. There are 36 public works and highway service and 15 local law enforcement providers in the same area. This points to the need for change, according to a recently released Baseline Review Report conducted by the Center for Governmental Research. More than $800,000 in Grants Awarded page 6
Consensus, a multi-partner commission focused on local government modernization, is now utilizing this report to seek public opinion on the efficiency and effectiveness of local governance with the help of a $50,000 grant from the Community Foundation. The Community Foundation grant will be combined with funding provided by The Gifford Foundation, The John Ben Snow Foundation, The Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation and The Allyn Foundation to conduct focus groups, phone and online surveys with community members, coordinate a speakers’ bureau for educational opportunities, and facilitate community meetings.
Refugees Receive Resettlement Assistance page 9
“It is our strong belief that such significant decisions as to the form, structure and scope of local government must be driven by broad, informed and inclusive community dialogue,” said Neil Murphy, Consensus Co-Chair. Consensus will conduct its major public education, outreach and engagement campaign throughout this year, with final recommendations expected by year-end. “Consensus’ public outreach plan is helping a large, diverse group of community members be heard about the efficiency of their local governments,” said Peter Dunn, President and CEO of the Community Foundation. “We hope that this feedback process helps spark conversation and serves as a community-building exercise.”
In Memory of Foundation Friend page 11
Consensus, the Commission on Local Government Modernization, was launched in 2014 to help shape a vision for more effective and efficient governance in Onondaga County. It is comprised of 17 public and private partners. To learn more about Consensus and find out how you can submit your opinion, visit consensuscny.com.