League urges 'no' vote on con-con

A few letters to the editor have been written about the question of whether to hold a Constitutional Convention for the state of Illinois. In one case, the writer believed that the convention would set term limits for local elected officials. To some, the Constitutional Convention would be a panacea, a way to solve all the problems of governing at the state and local level. If only it were true.

The last time the question of con-con came for a vote was in 1988. It was overwhelmingly defeated with 70 percent casting a NO vote. The League of Women Voters of the State of Illinois again urges citizens to vote NO on the question of holding a Constitutional Convention 40 years after the last convention was called.

The League, a nonpartisan organization, studies issues, presents educational programs, discusses the pros and cons and then puts the question to the membership for a vote.

In general, the League decided a Constitutional Convention called at this time of budget crises and extreme state partisanship would be unpredictable, inappropriate and expensive.

The 1969 Illinois Constitutional Convention required 25 years of study and debate. A lot of time was spent preparing the public for the need and issues for consideration. Outstanding nonpartisan leaders were selected as delegates, and a great deal of money was spent to make the process work.

Today, days before the election, few voters are aware that they will be voting on the question.

Today it is estimated that a convention would require a minimum of $78 million. With education, infrastructure and basic human services currently underfunded in the state of Illinois, how can we justify the expense of a Constitutional Convention?

The channel for change, the amendatory process, is available.

Susan Spengler

Palatine League of Women Voters