I Can See Clearly Now
I Can See Clearly Now is hosted by T.R. Carr, Ph.D., a retired professor of public policy and former mayor with decades of experience in government, education, and community leadership. This podcast helps listeners cut through the noise of modern politics and civic life by focusing on what truly matters in local, state, and national issues. Each episode offers clear, accessible discussions on government powers, public policy, and the responsibilities of informed citizens, encouraging everyone to move beyond disengagement and see democracy as a shared duty.
I Can See Clearly Now
Discussing Government Transparency and Trust with Former Farmington Hills Mayor Ken Massey
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Ken Massey, former mayor and council member of Farmington Hills with over 20 years of public service experience. Ken brings both his political background and academic expertise from Wayne State University to help us understand what's really at stake when government operates in the shadows. We dissect what happened with that hastily-called December meeting - why excluding council members and hiding the agenda violates not just the Open Meetings Act's spirit, but the fundamental trust required for effective governance. Ken explains how Farmington Hills' council-manager form of government is supposed to work, why nonpartisan cooperation is essential at the local level, and what happens when that breaks down. He also addresses a critical point: if the city council can't work together with mutual respect, how do you attract quality professionals to serve as city manager with seven bosses who don't trust each other? This conversation goes beyond procedural complaints - it's about preserving the well-functioning government that's given Farmington Hills its strong reputation for decades. Ken stepped away from political life after serving his community, but like Cincinnatus, he still cares deeply about what happens here.
