Slates are not good for ECC

I’ve been watching this (2013) and the previous (2011) election for ECC trustee and am disturbed by the slates developing in support of candidates. This is supposed to be a nonpartisan election with the candidates presenting themselves as individuals to the electorate. In 2011, two of the board members formed a slate with a third desired candidate in an attempt to ensure their election. The same thing has occurred this year.

We have an opportunity for diversity not only in culture but also in opinion and direction this year. We have an opportunity to have discussions and votes which will show the diversity of the Board. We have a chance to elect a group of board members who will discuss the options open to them and then vote their diverse directions instead of the current lack of discussion and 6 to 1 votes.

Thus, I have two suggestions for you as you determine for whom you will vote:

Vote for Nadia Daley as the 4-year candidate. She is a recent product of ECC who knows from her days as a student how and where we may improve our academic directions. She also understands the need to lower the ECC Tax Levy which results in an annual increase in our real estate tax rates.

Review the remaining candidates and vote for one from each slate being presented to you. Do not vote for two individuals from the same slate who will vote in the same direction without discussion. Ensure your vote provides for a diversity of opinion which will insure a full discussion of the matters brought before the board. Eliminate that 6-to-1 vote and ensure a wide range of discussion and direction.

Robert A. Getz

Elgin