Transparency in government; often promised, seldom delivered. Some want MRC plenary sessions to be public. You would be disillusioned more than informed upon seeing what’s behind the curtain. Having sat at such sessions as pro-mayor of Thorne, I can say they are mind-and butt-numbing one-way talkathons with so many agenda items, featuring so many dollars, that I doubt anybody can really keep track or form an intelligent opinion on all of them. The only way open plenaries would be fair to the mayors is if all attendees sat quietly and listened for the whole session, which can be from 9 am to 3 pm. Are you really that interested in the workings of the MRC?
There are things about the MRC that warrant more scrutiny than present. The tendency to blow up any idea to the point where it’s unworkable and overpriced is the main obstacle between taxpayers and good government.
Here’s an example: a group presents a plan to create a solar electric ‘farm’. This will be a large operation connected to the big power grid. But a more direct way of improving life for Pontiac residents would be to encourage household solar panels. Why? Because, when the power goes out, it’s usually because of damaged or inadequate transmission lines, not a lack of power on the grid. So, when an ice storm takes down the power lines, each solar-powered home could still have juice to maintain lights and charge internet devices to stay in communication with the outside world. Just a few panels are needed to maintain immediate essentials.
This discussion didn’t take place at the Council of Mayors. They only heard about the plans for a large solar farm. If one had been at that session and attempted to interject a different approach, it would go unheeded. Solar power farm = big project; subsidized individual solar power = not enough dollar signs to warrant interest. The things one could do with money to make life better are best done on your own, and then ask permission later. Don’t waste your time expecting the MRC to adopt a small plan that might work. It’s like trying to flag down a freight train by waving a bandana; stay off the tracks, lest you get run over.
Robert Wills,
SHAWVILLE/ THORNE
