Staying engaged with local government

Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk about the unpredictable world of municipal government. It’s a field that doesn’t exactly attract the masses, believe me. Working with cities and school districts, I’ve seen firsthand how unappreciated this line of work is. When things are running smoothly, nobody bats an eye. Bills are paid, meetings are held, and citizens remain blissfully unaware of how their hard-earned money is being spent. I’ve presented audits at city meetings, and let me tell you, the turnout is usually abysmal. Civic participation is at an all-time low.

But here’s the kicker: despite the lack of interest, citizens continue to demand more and

Publisher Emeritus

Steve Tinnen

more from their municipalities - even as budgets remain stagnant or shrink. It’s a tough job, my friends, but as public servants, we must step up our game. That’s why I’m disappointed in the city of Plattsburg for postponing their July city council meeting by two whole weeks. And what triggered this delay, you ask? Well, evidently, the council would have been a member short on the original date. But coincidentally, questions arose about water and gas price hikes. Something doesn’t add up here, folks.

City officials, I get it. It’s a tough gig, especially when you’re used to quiet, uneventful meetings. Nobody gives a dang when you do your job well. It’s all pleasantries and small talk. But times like these are why you were hired or elected in the first place. This is when people need you the most.

As for us citizens, it’s only natural to be furious when our bills skyrocket. We have valid concerns and questions. We deserve to be treated with dignity and respect while feeling ensured of the quality of the services provided by our municipalities. Accountability, responsibility, and transparency should be foundations of municipal governance. But it seems like we can’t get that right in Clinton County. From postponed meetings to the never-ending list of issues emerging from the courthouse, it’s downright outrageous. Our municipalities are a mess, and it’s time we did something about it.

So, my fellow citizens, it’s time to raise your voice. This isn’t some faceless bureaucracy in Washington, D.C. These are your neighbors, people you can actually talk to and influence. Let your concerns be heard not just now but on a regular basis. Do we care enough about our communities to dedicate a mere hour or two of our time each month? It’s a question we must answer.

Tyler Walock Trimble, Mo. (Formerly Plattsburg)