The whole Stakeholder thing has popped up again. This time in the report from the LCDC’s hired PR company. So it again begs the question: Are YOU a Stakeholder? What does that word mean, anyway? Anyone want to try a definition?
Here’s what cartoonist Jimmy Barona depicted a while ago. I think it’s worth another look. 
Isn’t a stakeholder a friend of the butcher? Ya know, the BEEF (taxes) are cut into sections by special consideration of choiceness (allotments) by the butcher (the mayor and city council). Then the stake is given to friends to cook and season as they please (the LCDC, ACI, etc.). The scraps and bones go to the dogs (the average taxpayer for sidewalks, etc.). Oh! and the dogs will be quieted down by the butcher and stakeholders by offering a little ground beef once and a while. And I aint talkin that 80% lean stuff. That would be to good too give a dog.
Mary, I hope this clarifies what a steakholder is for you. 🙂
Comment by concerned citizen — July 24, 2008 @ 3:48 pm
What I thought was interesting about the reports reference to stakeholders was that it was the stakeholders they claimed to have interviewed about where the LCDC could improve their image. Those particular stakeholders enumerated many of the same issues we non-stakeholders also have. Maybe some stakeholders are getting leery about the less than arms length transactions they see taking place or perhaps they’re resentful for not being brought into the equation deeply enough? Could be that the powers that be simply interchange the term stakeholder with constituent. The former certainly implies more than a casual relationship.
Comment by Wallypog — July 25, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
The report talks about having a meeting about the problems and bringing in the STAKEHOLDERS. Then it goes on to say who the Stakeholders are. It lists lots of boards, commissions, committees and elected officials. It doesn’t seem to mention critics or activists or plain ol’ taxpayers.
I say just open the meeting up to anyone that wants to come and express their ideas or ask their questions! No qualifications necessary.
Comment by mary — July 25, 2008 @ 2:46 pm
That term always makes me see red. If my memory is correct, the term initially surfaced in reference to those interviewed by Hiatt Palma for their report. Stakeholders were given an hour or so. No one at the city would tell me what criteria determined stakeholders.
Because LCDC is funded by property taxes, all citizens should have a voice in the process. Any selective elimination of citizens is unacceptable.
Comment by Susie Snedaker — July 26, 2008 @ 8:33 am