Even though Mayor Kate Wdowiasz does not have to be at city Common Council meetings, according to the city charter, observertoday.com poll respondents are not of the same opinion. In answering our weekly poll question, “Even though not required, should the Dunkirk mayor attend Common Council meetings?” 85% want her there with 15% saying she can take a pass.

Wdowiasz decided in May she would no longer be attending the twice-monthly gatherings, stating she does not believe enough business is getting done. After witnessing the last council meeting — with only three members in attendance for part of the meeting — her sentiments seem to have some truth.

Last week, council members asked a lot of questions while doing very little in terms of business. In all, the June 16 meeting lasted 20 minutes. For a city with a budget of $30 million — and very uncertain of its fiscal future in the coming months — there appears to be a lack of urgency.

For the record, the mayor did hold a meeting June 12 with department heads. Wdowiasz touched on topics involving summer labor while touching on some possible developments with important properties. Only one council member, Mike Civiletto, attended.

From this vantage point, it was more productive than the June 16 council meeting.

This week’s question: Are you planning to celebrate the upcoming 250th birthday of America at a parade or event?