Saturday Soapbox: Doubtful prediction

With people counting their pennies in these harsh economic times, it's possible Carpentersville's new 2-cent-per-gallon gas tax won't generate the $250,000 it expects. People already are watching for the best deal at the pumps, where prices seem to change with every fuel delivery, so it's not unlikely they'll choose another option. Like buying their gas in a neighboring community that isn't tacking on a tax. While Kane County doubled its gas tax from 2 cents per gallon to 4 cents per gallon last year, Carpentersville is the only home-rule community in the county to impose its own.

Continuing mess

First, disgruntled teachers began talking about joining a union, which prompted the leaders of Cambridge Lakes Charter School to issue a less-than-subtle warning to those who might be considering such a thing. Yet parents and teachers continue to complain about bad communication and no way to offer input. Now the Pingree Grove village board has called a town hall meeting for March 14 to discuss the mess and assigned the village president as a liaison to the nonprofit group that runs the school. A reminder, maybe, to be careful what you wish for -- like independence from the local school district.

And Mikes shall lead them

Quite possibly realizing their infighting was opening the door to more gains by the Democratic Party, Republicans in Kane and McHenry counties this week chose respected, non-confrontational types to lead their county organizations. Kane County board member Mike Kenyon of South Elgin was chosen to lead the GOP in Kane County, while 64th District state Rep. Mike Tryon was chosen the chairman of McHenry County Republicans. Both are known for their ability to work quietly to get things done, and to smooth feathers rather than ruffle them unnecessarily.

Unusual day to vote

Saturday is usually considered shopping day. Or sleep-in day. Or errand day. But this particular Saturday also is special election voting day for residents of the 14th U.S. House District. So finish up that shopping or slosh down that cup of coffee and get to the polls. Republican Jim Oberweis and Democrat Bill Foster will appreciate your effort.

Self-deception or democracy?

Are the meetings known as Summit 303 really just a method to get St. Charles School District 303 residents to raise their own taxes or democracy in action? Probably a little of both. School administrators within their professional organizations are advised to engage the community before asking for a tax hike. And if you don't participate in public decisions you really can't justifiably complain about policy later. One thing is certain already, though. About half the number of residents are showing up for Summit 303 discussions as did initially. Proving only one thing for certain -- there's a limit to everybody's tolerance for meetings.

Needed clout

After setting your jaw back in place from the jarring impact of your car hitting a pothole, you might ask, when are these roads going to be repaired? Well, you have someone with clout on your side. Gov. Rod Blagojevich has asked former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert and Southern Illinois University President Glenn Poshard to help build political support for passage of a road improvement plan in Springfield. No doubt Hastert will be reminding legislators that release of billions in federal road construction dollars set aside for Illinois is pending the state providing matching funds.