"Not invented here" syndrome.

     Once again we see an example of Town management ignoring good advice only to do it their way and let the taxpayer pay the tab.  In organizations cultures develop around leadership at the top.  Managers will often mimic their boss' actions or lack thereof.  Top management sets the priorities.  It is no different here in Exeter where the Town Manager demonstrates little if any innovation to find more efficient ways to run the town's affairs.  In fact, as pointed out in a previous posting, his apparent stubborn management style has resulted in unnecessary court and attorney costs.  We've also pointed out costly break time practices within the highway department.  Now another example has come to light.
     Folks may have noticed that the split rail fencing on Holland Way was in bad repair.  It was decided that it should be removed.  Last year when this came up, then-Selectman Frank Ferraro suggested that the Town offer the fence to landscapers or anyone that would be willing to take all of it at no cost to the Town (taxpayer).  The Town response? Let’s ignore a perfectly reasonable way to handle the matter and, instead, expend taxpayer money and have personnel from the Parks & Recreation Department do the job.
     The Board of Selectmen have often joined town management in this type of behavior ignoring input from talented outsiders.  Since we must pay the tab, it is high time they not only seriously consider and use this advice, they seek it.  In spite of their arrogant behavior, they do not have all the answers.