Need board member who'll show up

I am writing you as the most recent past vice chairman and District 10 elected Kane County Board member. My neighbors and I who reside in District 10 have been underrepresented for the past three years. Our current county board member (Susan Starrett) has the worst attendance at full board meetings of any board member in 2013, was once again the worst in 2014, and was then tied for the worst in 2015.

We the taxpayers are paying Susan ($25,000 salary plus $11,392 benefits = $36,392) per year to do a job, yet Susan does not feel the need to even show up for work. These attendance figures are pubic information on the Kane County website. Look it up for yourself. Susan has missed 14 meetings of 36 meetings, 62 percent in her three years on the board.

We need a more dedicated county board member. A more dedicated county board representative to represent District 10, attend meetings and get engaged in the process of county government. I know what it takes to be an effective board member. It is a lot of work and one must dedicate yourself to the work.

With the budget battles ensuing in county government, it's time for someone who wants to do the job. You can't be a part of public policy solutions if you don't take your seat at the table.

I'm supporting Doug Sullivan in the March 15 primary election. Doug has been a leader in my community for more than a decade - serving as president of the Batavia Library Board, a commissioner on Batavia's Historic Preservation Commission, and a loyal member of the Batavia Republican Party organization. His energy and dedication will offer this district the representation it deserves.

Thomas R. Van Cleave

Batavia