The test of any leader is demonstrated in how effectively he or she navigates crisis.
A good example of ineffective crisis management was seen with Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy.
Successful navigation of crisis is directly related to contingency planning. So what is contingency planning? I took the liberty to research this issue and here is what I found:
"Contingency Planning: Preparing contingency plans in advance, as part of a crisis management plan, is the first step to ensuring an organization is appropriately prepared for a crisis. Crisis management teams can rehearse a crisis plan by developing a simulated scenario to use as a drill. The first hours after a crisis breaks are the most crucial, so working with speed and efficiency is important, and the plan should indicate how quickly each function should be performed. The contingency plan should contain information and guidance that will help decision makers to consider not only the short-term consequences, but the long-term effects of every decision."
OK, now that we have a common basis of understating of crisis management and how effective crisis management is tied to contingency planning, we can OK at Hamden’s snow situation more objectively. As I sit here writing this piece, I have had to undergo a power outage, historic snowfall and unplowed streets for three days and counting. Now with the rain, I can look forward to flooding.
I know I am not alone. People are angry and bewildered by the lack of preparation by this administration. Meanwhile, Mayor Jackson is scrambling around to find plows, pay loaders and crews to deal with what his administration has said was “unexpected” despite the dire warnings and forecast. Roadways are still congested and hazardous. All medical emergencies can be considered life threatening, since it is a hope and a prayer that someone will get there in time. Meanwhile, folks are running low on food and fuel, and things will quickly turn from bad to worse.
Here is my point. There hasn’t been any effective contingency planning on the part of this administration. From our own financial crisis to the mismanagement of this emergency crisis, leadership has been non-existent. Mr. Jackson appears to be reacting rather than planning. Remember in November, or soon ye shall forget.
Ron Gambardella
Chairman of the Hamden Republican Party
Hamden