County chair’s decision avoided polarization
After thinking of the recent letter from Kane County Treasurer Chris Lauzen regarding a board meeting where Chair Corinne Pierog declined to cast a vote in a tie on the, what I will call, the “Lauzen Caucus” motion looking to stir up fear and dislike if not actual hate of immigrants.
Mr. Lauzen, whose own parents were fortunate to immigrate to this country, should know that the reasons for immigration are many and complicated. He also knows as a former chair and legislator that the Illinois law on this is clear, and mandated by the legislature in Springfield several years ago. A proposal to have the county essentially take a position on a subject that is beyond altering here but within reach of alienating and furthering distrust among the many legal immigrants here and their brethren sent north by Mr. Lauzen's political party colleague in Texas is shameful.
Like the Oz behind the curtain, Mr. Lauzen bellows what ought to be done when he is stoking the fire of fear. Chairperson Pierog knew and Mr. Lauzen knows that a “no” vote and not voting created the same result; failure of a misplaced motion. Now, Chair Pierog is in a position to simply lead and fashion what is right rather than fall into the abyss of polarized airs of board activity. A realm the treasurer would prefer, to the detriment of the greater good of the county.
Edward C. Marth
St. Charles