Trost: Why I resigned Deer Park board
On 9/9/10, I submitted my resignation as trustee of Deer Park. I feel it is important to let residents know why.
It was my hope when I was elected that as a board we could move toward a productive venue. Unfortunately, I do not believe we have been able to move beyond the issues that have plagued Deer Park since the inception of the Vehe Barn project.
President Kellerman, Dale Sands and Keith Olson campaigned on a platform of transparency and to that end it is my belief that has been the primary focus since April 2009, clearly directed at the Vehe Barn project.
Nobody disagrees that R.W. Clark's construction was less than desirable. A suit was filed against Clark and Individual Surety Ltd. in January 2009. (But) as a result of discovery proceedings by Ansel Glink, it became clear that even if the village were to win, Clark had no assets or valid performance bond to recover any part of the millions in cost overrides.
Based on this information, the board directed Ansel Glink to dismiss the lawsuit.
Fast forward to present day, and it's Groundhog Day again, as evidenced by a judgment against Clark Construction and the inability to pay.
Although I honestly believe everyone on the board believes they are acting on the best behalf of the village, I have deep concerns regarding the probable and impending litigation.
In my opinion, the current village attorney and special counsel have not given the board any new information that concludes there is hope of recovering anything from Clark or the insurance company.
Due to the change of legal counsel and effectively spending money that has already been spent, this is not in keeping with my fiduciary responsibilities as a trustee. I cannot in good conscience remain on the board and continue to support spending village money for this purpose in these stressful economic times.
If we could mentally move beyond the barn, we may be able to be respected as a village. I believe it's time that we all face the fact that "the horse has left the barn and is probably not coming back."
Joyce Trost
Deer Park