The Daily Record surveyed the 2011-15 City Council members about the current Council year. Their responses to five questions will be published over the coming weeks. Johnny Gaffney, a Democrat, is a full-time Council member.
How have you prepared both personally and professionally for your role on City Council?
All of my life and previous work experiences have prepared me for my role here on the Council. Most of those experiences have been centered on some type of team-related effort. While my colleagues and I don’t always see eye to eye on issues, we have to come together as a team and move the city forward.
Are you satisfied with your Council assignments and why do you believe you were chosen for them?
I am always appreciative to serve alongside my fellow members in any capacity. I believe that I was chosen for each of my assignments based on my willingness to serve, ability to tackle (no football pun intended) tough issues, and my desire to see progressive changes for citizens in districts such as mine.
Which committees or assignments would you like next?
Next year, I would like to serve on the Finance and Personnel committees. Finance, because, of my background and interest in the financial banking industry. Personnel, because I believe that my overall leadership skills and understanding of employee issues would serve as a great resource for the committee and its topics of discussion.
Is serving on the Council a part-time or full-time job?
The job is meant to be part-time, but it is definitely a full-time commitment. I would say that I commit up to, if not more than, 40 hours a week, in serving my constituency.
What’s the first piece of legislation you have introduced or will introduce in this Council year?
My first piece of legislation for 2011 was Resolution 2011-63 honoring and commending Maxwell House on its 100th anniversary. Maxwell House is not only a local landmark, but nationally recognized for being a trailblazer in the coffee manufacturing industry. I am proud to have such a well-known and respected company in my district, and wanted to share its success and accomplishments with the rest of the city.