Parody hinders BG's ability to move on

On Tuesday, the voters of this community took a historic step, voting overwhelmingly to recall an elected trustee from office. They spoke forcefully at the polls, demanding an end to unprofessional conduct and unproductive rancor.

Wednesday should have been a day when the community could breathe a sigh of relief and begin to look forward to a more positive and productive period of village government. Unfortunately, instead, we have been forced to try to ponder the imponderable, explain the inexplicable and defend the indefensible. Why did the village president put on a wig and deride the recalled trustee on Tuesday evening?

It is important to note that Elliott conceived and executed his “parody” alone; I certainly did not know of his plan. I understand he intended to be funny, and to blow off some steam, after what has been a long and difficult period, especially for him. That said, however, it did not work and I was, frankly, horrified at the sight (as were many others present). Elliott's misguided attempt at humor was undignified and inappropriate, to say the least, and believe it showed extremely poor judgment.

His ill-conceived action reflected poorly on the community and other members of the board, none of whom were complicit in his “joke”. His action also taints unfairly and unjustly the efforts of the group of citizens who spearheaded the recall effort, and who deserved better from him.

It is clear that Elliott profoundly regrets his poor decision. I give him credit for owning up to his mistake and apologizing promptly and unequivocally.

But the lesson here is simple the nonsense has to end. This community has had it with acrimony, divisiveness and the circus atmosphere that has dominated village government for the past 18 months. The public wants the board to return to conducting its business professionally and reasonably. They want to see an end to the personal attacks, character assassinations and other unproductive side shows.

They know individuals will disagree, of course, but demand that they do so without being disagreeable. That was the message the voters sent loudly and clearly on Tuesday.

Jeffrey Berman

Buffalo Grove