Politics

WVXU has been covering the stories of politics and corruption at Cincinnati's City Hall since early 2020. We have now launched an initiative to more closely examine Cincinnati politics and the individuals who have shaped it, along with the current allegations of corruption. We'll also explore proposals for change, and seek feedback from local leaders and community members on what can be done to restore trust in City Hall.Trust in Local Government, WVXU's Public Integrity Project will analyze our council-manager form of government and the charter amendments designed to reinforce ethical standards at City Hall; take a historical look at corruption in Cincinnati government; talk with the candidates for Cincinnati mayor and continue with an ongoing series of features, interviews and candidate profiles.

What Is The Proper Role Of Cincinnati's Mayor?

91.7 WVXU | By Michael Monks

Published April 21, 2021 at 4:02 AM EDT

For decades following a corrupt regime at City Hall, being the mayor of Cincinnati was mostly a ceremonial affair. That changed in 1999, when city voters approved an amendment to the city's charter allowing the mayor to be directly elected by voters and handing whoever won the seat a raft of powers over Cincinnati City Council.

But was that change a good thing? Some local political watchers say the mayor has too much power and that it's time to go back to the original spirit of Cincinnati's 1920s-era charter reforms. Others, however, say the "stronger mayor" form of government Cincinnati has now allows for decisive leadership and growth under the council-manager system.

Joining Cincinnati Edition are Mayor John Cranleyand Charter Committee President Matt Woods to talk about the proper role of the city's mayor.

Listen to Cincinnati Edition live at noon M-F. Audio for this segment will be uploaded after 4 p.m. ET.

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The "Trust In Local Government: WVXU's Public Integrity Project" examines Cincinnati politics and the individuals who shaped it. Read more here. Support for this project comes from The Murray and Agnes Seasongood Good Government Foundation.