Over the last several months, I have followed the Kane County Board meetings and what I have taken away from it is that the process does not allow for counter points when falsehoods, half-truths and distortions are presented. You know as Board members that County wide decisions are sometimes complicated and go from committee to committee before passing. Chairwoman Pierog does not have a magic wand to wave to get what she wants to install. So, I am here today to correct some of the falsehoods and distortions.
Corinne Pierog is the obvious target of a group of unhappy citizens. But their complaints are unfair because what they accuse her of is either not in her control or are unequivocally false. Allowing undocumented individuals to vote… How is that possible? It has never been possible for non citizens to vote, and we have never seen abuses of this nature anywhere across the country. How is that Chairman Pierog could be responsible for something that doesn’t exist? It’s a Non-Issue!
Providing housing or temporary shelter for immigrants .. This is NOT happening as she has stated this over and over. This is a charge without merit.
“Sanctuary county” – a phrase coined during the Rauner years with the Trust Act. Again, she has no decision-making power or any legislative authority whatsoever.
Receiving donations from Black Jack business owner in Kane County is a true statement. However, this very same man has donated to other Kane County elected officials. A judge, our very own State’s Attorney and a Mayor have recently received donations from this individual. This man has the right to free speech and to donate to whomever he wants. Why is Corinne the only one targeted for this charge?
The Freedom of Speech Zone that became a recent contentious issue was neither Corinne’s idea nor her decision. When officials provided a clear explanation of what this was about, the complainers could only say they don’t believe it. BELIEVE IT!
What expenses have NOT gone up in 14 years? Compare the average car price from 2010 to now. From $29K to $48K in 14 years. When someone said “Just because there hasn’t been an increase in taxes, doesn’t mean there should be one now…” What a ludicrous comment and all the while you will expect the safety and services you have come to expect…How do you pay for that? Furthermore, a sales tax isn’t paid exclusively by the citizens of Kane County. People traveling through from other jurisdictions support this revenue with purchases and seems like a very smart way to increase needed funding.
All the good things that have happened with this Board and under Corinne’s watch seem to be totally ignored by this group of complainers. The Solar fields, for example will save a quarter of a million dollars a year for the next 10 years. The Long Meadow Parkway Toll was removed to save ALL Kane County taxpayers $30 million in bond payments. just to start. The many things the Board has done to save the County and Taxpayers money is never mentioned. I for one have appreciated the many accomplishments by this Board and their genuine concern for a healthy community. The projects that have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars and the decisions made to protect our residents and community is just a beginning.
Instead of continuing to do good things for Kane County, the Board is having to spend valuable time listening to NON – ISSUE complaints.
The complainers want to install Lance Bell. This man’s report card is horrible, having been in court 3 times this year for questionable business practices and bankruptcy. And there is more! Is this who you want leading this county? I think NOT!
Stop the fear-mongering, get the FACTS – and STOP wasting everyone’s time!
