McGuire politics hurt Hanover Twp.
I would like to shine some light on the unfortunate state of affairs at Hanover Township since the April election.
Like many others, I have fallen victim to Brian McGuire's politics, whereby independent thinkers are punished and cronies rewarded.
After more than a decade of volunteer service to the township's Mental Health Board, I was summarily thrown out the door by McGuire. Sadly, the very same fate befell my talented and energetic fellow board member, Rita Lopienski, who had just been elected board president.
In my years of service, I have missed few meetings and worked very hard for something I truly believe in. Indeed, the Township Board repeatedly commended my efforts over the last five years.
Living in Bartlett for more than half a century, my roots run deep here, and I feel I still have much to offer. I will continue to do so through my other commitments such as Special Olympics, School District U-46, Bartlett Historical District, Red Hat Society, Friends of Bartlett Public Library, Bartlett Woman's Club and more.
No moss will grow under me: My concern is not personal, but communal. When invaluable volunteer positions are treated like Chicago-style patronage jobs, our township will suffer for the loss of talent, education and professional expertise found in many good people who will want nothing to do with the political stench now permeating the township.
I have profound concern for the Mental Health Board, which has lost experienced members and fresh, talented applicants who aren't political cronies of McGuire and accordingly had no chance of being nominated by him to serve the profound community needs.
It is a sad day in Hanover Township, and I hope we all keep our eyes open over the next four years and remember well our civic responsibility in the next election.
Ruth Beckner
Bartlett