Role of township needs debate

Few things surprise me anymore when it comes to Grafton Township, but I was surprised when I learned Huntley Trustee Pam Fender would become probably the first administrator in Grafton Township's history.

The township's trustees hired Fender this month essentially to circumvent Supervisor Linda Moore, who they say makes it difficult to conduct business.

For her part, Moore says it's a waste of taxpayers' money. She may have a point.

The trustees argue they have had to lean on Township Attorney Keri-Lyn Krafthefer to conduct routine business like preparing agendas and board packets and paying bills.

Both sides point to the township's rising legal bills, which already total about $88,000, double the budgeted expense of $44,000, according to Moore.

But much of that overrun, as the trustees point out, results from defending the township against the lawsuit initially filed by Moore and other township residents (Moore has since taken her name off the suit).

I would be shocked if the amount trustees pay Krafthefer to complete simple tasks like preparing agendas exceeds the $35,000 salary (plus benefits) Fender will earn.

Fender is also tasked with leading new initiatives. It's fair to say that given the animosity between Moore and the trustees, new programs conceived by the trustees would be difficult to implement without an administrator.

But that poses a critical question: Should Grafton Township expand its services?

It is clear that many people beyond a small group of vocal residents question whether township government is really necessary, or just a vestige of an antiquated and convoluted network of government units in Illinois.

It is also clear that many enjoy the services townships provide, such as transportation for seniors.

Given the divergence of opinion, shouldn't there be a debate about the role and size of township government before trustees expand that role? And shouldn't the people who live and pay taxes in the township have a say in that debate?