Stay vigilant with Kane County Board

I would like to thank all the voters (46 percent of them!) who put their faith in me as a candidate for Kane County Board chairman.

While I did not win, I believe some important issues were brought forth that resonated with a good number of people.

If my candidacy prompted more involvement by voters in our local government, then we won. I urge all of you, however you voted, to stay aware of the important decisions that come before the county board. Pick up the phone and talk to your county board representatives and let them know how you feel. Come to speak at the county board meetings and let your opinions be known.

This isn't about us against them. It is our government, not their government. Every decision the board makes, with the board chairman at the helm, is a decision that affects each of us and is a decision that is funded with our tax dollars.

Only an involved citizenry can force our elected officials to keep the promises they make to get elected. On Dec. 1, 2008, the board chairman will receive a $10,000 raise and receive $95,000 a year. Shortly before the election, she stated publicly that she will refuse the pay hike. Of course, since it was approved by the board in May, by mandate the pay raise goes into effect. The only way it could be "refused" would be for her to write a check and donate it to the county's general operating fund.

Let's all make sure she keeps her word.

Sandy Kaczmarski

Elburn