“Keep the city clean, keep it safe and keep it affordable,” said Marchetti. “Do that and good things will happen, but you have to start with the basics.”
Not deputy mayor, says Noble
For Noble, Marchetti’s big plans sound more appropriate for someone running for mayor than alderman-at-large. Indeed, Marchetti said he was laying the groundwork for a mayoral run but, after talking it over with his wife, opted out, only to be recruited by Republicans for the number-two spot.
“He thinks the alderman-at-large should be the deputy mayor,” said Noble. “But that’s not how I see the role in reading the City Charter.”
Instead, Noble said, the role is as chief administrator of the council, ensuring that communications get to the right committees and that every alderman has what they need to make informed decisions on legislation. The council president, Noble said, also has to maintain open communication with the mayor’s office so aldermen have a heads-up on the executive’s legislative priorities and the mayor in turn can hear from the council.
“You try to create an atmosphere where the council can work to create legislation and address whatever concerns residents have in a timely manner with the appropriate consideration,” said Noble.
Noble said he has taken a lead role on some issues, including a new effort to create a city-wide comprehensive plan. He has also backed efforts to make the city more livable including the complete streets program which aims to create a more bike- and pedestrian-friendly streetscape. Going forward, Noble said, he wanted to focus — behind the scenes — on efforts to recruit new business to invest in the city and, perhaps most importantly, help guide a Common Council which will include at least five new members.
“There’s a process there and you need experience to make it work and for aldermen to achieve their goals,” said Noble. “I feel like I can be of more service now than ever.”
