Last week, taxpayers may have missed it, but they should be gratified that two public bodies “got it” when it came to their decision making processes. Often local governments are properly lambasted for not either having a process that is thought out or don't listen to the public. Whether or not you agree with the results, both the Auburn Enlarged City School District and the Cayuga County Parks & Trails Commission, seem to have done both.

Maybe the Auburn school district had to, unfortunately, be kicked in the teeth twice for them to see the light about public worries about a massive budget/tax increase in these tough economic times. Last week's decision to keep spending nearly flat after losing two budget votes last spring, made it clear that the board understands that these tough economic times don't allow for large scale spending increases.

It looks like the board took seriously voter outrage last year when they defeated the same budget presented to them in May and then again in June. With a series of public meetings, some well attended, others not, they were willing to listen to anyone who wanted to have a say. While the board and their staff still have to sell their budget to the public for their approval #- give them credit for at least opening up the process and apparently “hearing.”

Give the Parks Commission credit for doing two things when it came to naming a road in Emerson Park after the late Thommie Walsh. First and foremost, they did it in the open, unlike many local governing bodies that “all of a sudden” seem to have a naming idea on the agenda to rubber stamp with little notice. The commission rightfully sought public input as part of the process.

They also deserve credit for not doing what is so often done - naming something after a government leader they are beholden to. Too often local governments name buildings and other public places after individuals who have delivered money from Albany or Washington as a political reward. No government should be allowed to do this.

For people who, if past protocol is to be followed, may have a city street named after them in the future, it should be either after they are out of office for at least two decades or when they are long gone from this earth.

For example, the next streets in Auburn should be named after the late Paul W. Lattimore and Edward Lauckern, who have passed on. Any others should be out of city hall for decades before being considered for such an honor. That same standard should be used for politicians and celebrity citizens.

Cosentino is a former mayor of Auburn and can be contacted at cozguytho@aol.com