Don't let your mouth write checks...

Recently I was reminded of a phrase I hadn't heard in a while. It starts out "don't let your mouth write checks" and I end it with "that your behind can't cash", though it more commonly ends stronger than that. A nearby city has been working on public project for what seems like forever. A neighboring municipality completed a similar project over a year ago. The key is though that city's project was funded by private donations, aka less hoops. The nearby city is only kicking in 20% of the cost while the state Department of Transportation (DOT) is paying 80%. If you've ever dealt with a state agency, you know that means lots of hoops. However, they are writing the check, so you have to play by their rules. The mayor of the city has recently been badmouthing the DOT because of all the delays. He stated he hopes to never work with them again. Now, I understand his frustration. This project has taken far longer than it should and has essentially turned into an ongoing comedy of errors. However, you don't honk off a state agency. Let me count the reasons why.

1. The current project is not done. After you've said bad things about them, how likely do you think they'll be to help finish this project as quickly and with as little hassle as possible to the city? Yep, not so much.

2. Even though you don't want to work with them again, it's very likely that you will want their help with something in the future. State government employees tend to stick around a long time. They will remember this when you come ask for something again. Don't expect them to be eager to help whatever project it is succeed.

3. You sound like a toddler throwing a tantrum. You didn't get your way and now you are mad. Suck it up! Life doesn't always go the way you plan. Part of being a functional grown-up is dealing with bumps in the road. You are the mayor. Act like one.

As soon as I read what the mayor said, I cringed with how it could end badly. Well, very soon I started reading other people saying this could be devastating to future projects where assistance from DOT was wanted. Yes, we should not let our mouths write checks our behinds can't cash.