An Answer to the Call

Yesterday I challenged local elected leaders to offer a sit-down meeting of transparency without citizens having to pull public records just to get answers.

Mayor Crow stepped up to that challenge.

Earlier today, I met with him to discuss the concerns many residents have raised about transparency and how taxpayer money and grant funding are being spent in our community.

Over the past few days, many of you have also reached out expressing concern for my safety simply because I’ve been asking questions and reviewing public records. I truly appreciate that support, but it also highlights an unfortunate reality. Citizens should never feel afraid to engage with their own government.

During our meeting, Mayor Crow stated that in times of uncertainty he wants the public to know that his office is a safe place for citizens to ask questions and receive answers. He acknowledged the community’s concerns and expressed his commitment to transparency and accountability.

We are currently in the process of scheduling a follow-up meeting where we will sit down together and review how taxpayer money and grants are being allocated.

Mayor Crow was the first and, so far, the only local official to respond to this challenge. I appreciate his willingness to step forward and meet directly with the public.

My hope is that other elected officials will follow his lead. Transparency shouldn’t be difficult, and accountability should never be something leaders shy away from.

This is how local government should work.

Updates will follow as we continue working toward clarity for the public.