Much of what you say is correct. But, like any place unless the citizenry takes to the streets the politicians ignore the people's ideas until next election cycle. Currently city land is being cleared of the old and given away. Part of the citizens think new is better than old so they defend these actions. But the actions give nothing to the city or the city coffers. So the "leaders" are like so many from outside the city who sell its assets and give nothing back.