August 31, 2011
By Rhonda Reed-Slaughter
rhonda@thenumbercrunchers-bolingbrook.com
The concept of "open and transparent" government remains to be pure fantasy, at least in Bolingbrook.
We find it very difficult to get a public official to go on record about anything.
Consider the number of articles we've published on the Village of Bolingbrook, Valley View School District, or DuPage Township.
Mayor Claar, the village trustees, the school board and all, refuse to answer any of our questions, period.
Maybe it's damage control.
Or, maybe they think if by ignoring us long enough, we will simply go away.
Instead of treating every comment or criticism as a personal attack, why not consider it an open invitation to debate the issues.
After all, that's what an open and transparent government does, right?
Our community deserves authentic leaders that are bright and openly honest about the policies they support and the decisions they make, even when it's unpopular.
If it's your truth - say it! speak up!
Fortunately, not all elected officials prescribe to the "absolutely no comment" strategy.
Senator A.J. Wilhelmi's (D) one of them.
It's no secret, we've been very critical of Senator A.J. Wilhelmi's support of the tax increase, FOIA modification law, and the independent water agency legislation.
Instead of ignoring our questions and concerns, Senator Wilhelmi addressed the issues head-on.
Over the past year, he has shared with us his reasoning for supporting the tax hike and FOIA modification bills. (Click on the link below)
Early Tuesday, Senator Wilhelmi took the time to answer more tough questions about the independent water agency, and the new FOIA law. (The results of our conversation will be published on Thursday)
As a result of the exchange, the community now have access (via The Number Crunchers website) to both sides of the argument, and can make an informed decision based on fact.
This is the ideal picture of an "open and transparent" government at work.
We truly appreciate Senator Wilhelmi's input, and participation.
I sincerely hope this will encourage the elected officials in our community to step up and open their mouths.
Come join us in the debate. Plug-in, and participate.
I can't say it enough - EVERY VOICE COUNTS!!!
CLICK HERE TO READ SENATOR WILHELMI'S RESPONSE TO THE TAX HIKE & FOIA MODIFICATION BILL
Stay tuned: On Thursday, we will publish highlights from our most recent conversation with Senator Wilhelmi (D).
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