Transparency Award

Here’s one for the “better late than never” file. Will post a photo ASAP but so far there are technical difficulties preventing it. [Update 2: Finally! H/T D2.] [Update 1: Whoops, here’s another article. Slow news day, I guess. H/T GM]

Water, Water Thread

We, and our neighbors behind us are sharing lakefront property again. It used to be something that happened about every 5 years, but now seems to have become an annual event. Some on our street are having flooding troubles that require generators even though the electricity (thank goodness) hasn’t gone out, because they need extra…

Discussion: Acting Mayor

WEEKS AGO I heard that 4th Ward Alderman Donna Gorski was considered a front-runner for acting mayor to fill out Mayor Van Buer’s term. Rumors being nearly as essential to the average informed DeKalbite as air, this was just something to file away mentally. It didn’t seem reasonable. Ald. Povlsen is not only the senior…

“Open Book Revolution” & DeKalb

This is about a relatively new but promising resource for Illinois activists at the local level. It’s called For the Good of Illinois and the goal is simple: Help community activists take steps for greater transparency in local government. Its mission: For The Good Of Illinois was founded to empower regular people with the means…

A Discouraging Word

A few days ago I was approached by people associated with city matters who tried to discourage me from speaking out at meetings and from blogging. It was the usual. Ponder the timing with me. And let me know privately if it has happened to you. yinn422[AT]yahoo[dot]com.

DeKalb County Online: Rental Inspection Manager Hired Last Year

Surprise! The City of DeKalb has been paying the “proposed” Rental Inspection Program Manager for the better part of a year now: According to records obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, filed by DeKalb County Online, the City hired an independent contractor, retired DeKalb Police Lt. James Kayes, to perform the duties…

Airport Business Plan

A fellow citywatcher told me I should ask for a copy of the DeKalb-Taylor Municipal Airport (DTMA) Business Plan. So I did. He must be laughing right now, knowing (I am sure) that there isn’t one. That’s right, the $350,000 per year black hole has no plan to change.