Consider lobbying costs for spending cuts

As drastic federal cutbacks take place, more social service issues will need to be addressed at the county level. But DuPage County's budget shows expenditures exceeding revenues this coming year for the first time.

Budget shortfalls usually mean cuts in social services. I am concerned that board members will not only turn their backs on those who rightfully depend on such services but will also forget that investing funds in social programs tends to save money over time.

There are cuts that can - and probably should - be made in noncritical areas. I hope the following data will help DuPage residents understand what is happening within one specific area of the budget, as county government is vague to many of us.

DuPage County contracts with four separate lobbying firms costing taxpayers $282,000 each year. Under the county board's purview, the state's attorney lobbyists add another $48,000 yearly. Taxpayer dollars also find their way to the following lobbying entities: National Association of Counties, Illinois Association of Counties, Illinois Association of Auditors, Illinois Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, Illinois Association of Clerks and Recorders, Clerk of the Circuit Court, and Treasurer - to name some. Why is this expenditure necessary, when members of the Kane County Legislative Committee successfully serve as that county's own lobbyists?

Everyone deserves the right to pursue the American dream. Let's make sure the opportunities DuPage County offers are available to everyone. We need a more diverse county board that adequately represents all citizens and is willing to ask tough questions - about lobbyist fees, for example - and will challenge the status quo. The Democratic Party is offering such candidates.

Diane Dassow

Lombard