Michael Silence [1] says it is:

KnoxViews has linked to and commented on extensively the saga of politicians behaving badly in Knox County. I sense, that has had very little if any impact on local politicos.

Do you agree? Can anyone think of an example where a discussion on a local blog, here or anywhere else, has made any difference or changed any behavior or affected any outcome?

Also, I wonder how many local government officials and employees read this blog? We know that a couple do, because they post here from time to time. I wonder how many others lurk? And what if any benefit is it to them, or to the community at large?