There is not just one reason that I have decided that it is time for a change to the DeWitt County Board..  There are several reasons. 

I have served on an elected community board in the past, and I know that it is a lot of work.  It also takes great commitment and time.  I was elected for three terms for a total of 12 years.  I also know that one cannot please everyone all of the time.  Most people run for office because they would like to make improvements for the good of the community in which they live. 

Some of those decisions may directly affect them.  Some may not.  When we are elected to a public office, we are to serve the people who elected us. 

I have had the opportunity to attend several DeWitt County Board meetings as well as many zoning board meetings this past year. 

The following are reasons that I see the need for a change to the DeWitt County Board:

    I have seen impatience and inappropriate comments made by some incumbent board members to other sitting board members who asked extra questions, needed further explanations, or wanted to modify proposed motions.  This is disrespectful in my mind.  All questions are worthy of consideration.  No one is above being asked for an explanation.

    I have witnessed some of the incumbent board members not voting to protect the public safety of those they were elected to represent .  For instance, some incumbents failed to vote for an amendment that would allow road work to NOT begin until the impacted drainage district agreed.  Our rural roads are our lifeline.  Why not consider this important?  In another motion, Alta Farms ll was asked to coordinate with ALL LOCAL EMERGENCY SERVICE PROVIDERS.  This modification failed.  Why?  I would have liked to hear why this was not in the best interest of our county residents.

    I have also become aware that there is not a willingness by some incumbents to discuss proposals and/or compromise in some way.  Compromise and discussion can help make our county better.  It allows us, the citizens, to know that we are being heard.  It allows us to know that the board members are serving the public and not themselves. 

Public officials are elected to serve the public.  There is usually not only one right way.  There were many modifications proposed that would have made a huge impact for some people.  All were worthy of true discussion and compromise.  When some incumbent members decide that they no longer need to consider those who are most at risk of harm, then we need to elect other people.

It is time for a change. 

Please consider voting for Megan Myers in District C; Buck Carter, Jamie Prestegaard, and Aaron Kammeyer in District A for the DeWitt County Board. 

Respectfully submitted,

Joann Woolums

Clinton, IL  61727

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 28, 2020

Dear Editor:
 

The DeWitt County Board incumbents up for election have a few questions that need to be answered.  These types of questions would be considerations a sound business would address, that experienced representatives would consider, and that sound legal advice would ensure are answered prior to proceeding with regular business.

In 2018 and 2019, the wind company for Alta Farms Wind Project II submitted two special use permits.  Each permit filed required a very sizable fee to be paid by the wind company.  In each case, it was reported that the monies (much more than $250,000) were added to the General Fund.  These monies could have instead been earmarked to pay for independent engineering and/or legal costs, etc.  What was this money used for and why was it not placed in a special fund?

In years leading up to the filing of these permits, several amendments to wind ordinances were recommended to the Board that would have prevented legal and engineering costs, among others, from being incurred by the County (residents).  I believe the term “indemnification” (compensation for harm or loss; security against legal liability for one's action) was part of the recommended amendment wording.  And as I remember, this was part of an address made to the Board during this process by one of the new candidates.  Why did all the incumbents vote against this recommendation?

These are just a few of the questions incumbents need to answer in order to inform us constituents.  Why were these questions not part of the radio forum, or part of the latest pro-incumbent letters to the editor, or part of all the postings, mailing, and newspaper articles? 

ALL the letters, mailings and articles suggest these apparent shortcomings in the experienced incumbents’ operation of this County Board are the fault of those affected by this project, and now, bearing liability falls on the County’s residents.  Where is the incumbents’ share of responsibility?

Pamela D. Elliott

Wapella IL 

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 26, 2020

Dear Editor:
 

If you were going to fire someone for something they did that you felt was wrong, for which of the following reasons would it be?

    1) They were good stewards of company money and always stayed within budget?
    2) They have been able to work together with other employees regardless of differing views to get the job done?
    3) They didn’t cause unwarranted scrutiny by news sources?
    4) They found ways to bring the company from being in the red to being in the black?
    5) They have worked extra hours without compensation to get the job done?
    6)  They volunteered their skills to enrich their employer (at no charge and not needing recognition)?
    7) When a critical employee safety component of the business was about to be lost they found a less expensive solution while protecting more?
    8) They found a way to decrease utility costs at no extra expense for the employer?
    9) They lobbied to keep an important source of revenue for the company?
    10) They transformed a company disgrace into a state-of-the-art facility?
    11) They protected the company from chemical contaminants insuring all employees stayed safe?
    12) They made sure all departments had the resources needed to perform properly?
    13) They looked forward to ensure that the revenue needed to survive was being addressed?
    14) They proactively made required minimum wage increases less of an impact on the company’s bottom line, while working at well below minimum wage levels to do their own jobs?
    15) They are willing to keep their positions even though they know the road ahead is going to be difficult because of revenue losses created by Covid19 and other factors?
    16) They continually look for a revenue stream which doesn’t cost the employees any financial burdens…even when not all support their efforts?
    17) There have been no lay-offs during their tenure because of good budgeting and fiscal responsibility?
    18) They make decisions because it was good for the company and other employees rather that what a minority thought of them?
    19) They were willing to voice their opinions in public when others who are applying for their jobs wouldn’t?

Now, substitute DeWitt County for company and workplace, residents of DeWitt County for bosses and other employees, and they for incumbent board members now running for re-election.

Looking at the very possible loss of revenue that we may face down the road, it is more important now more than ever, to keep experienced and proven leaders in the offices of the County Board. 

Re-elect Camille Redman and Lance Reece in District A and
 Jay Wickenhauser, Scott Nimmo, and Dave Newberg in District C.

Kim Spencer

Clinton, IL  

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 23, 2020

Dear Editor:

It is clear that the new candidates running for DeWitt County Board have been unfairly mentioned by a faction that does not clearly identify themselves in mailings, postcards, phone calls, and other online posts.  Having attended most Board meetings over the last several years, I can attest to why these candidates decided to run for office.

In a recent mailing, it was questioned as to whether the new candidates (the so-called “no show candidates”) did not want to show their lack of knowledge about issues affecting the County at a recent radio interview forum.  Each new candidate was named in this letter and accused of numerous claims.  One new candidate was called a “Manchurian candidate”, a reference to a “political thriller about the son of a prominent U.S. political family who is brainwashed into being an unwitting assassin for a Communist conspiracy.”  Why does this group feel the need to name-call?

In a recent newspaper article, the claim is that wind turbines are being built all around DeWitt County approved by other conservative counties.  They ask why are wind turbines so bad and why is a local group trying to spread untruths.  They do not list any counties that are trying to implement ordinances to protect their residents from falling blades or from radar impediments which are both real safety issues, among others.

In recent postcards, it was claimed that the new candidates were recruited by a local group.  In fact, after attending many Board meetings, it became obvious to each that change was needed.  The safety of residents was not being considered at Board meetings and incumbent Board members rarely stated their reasoning for their votes and motions. 

Claims were also made about harassment of Arcosa employees, and that these new candidates do not care about these employees.  In fact, an amendment to the wind ordinances was recommended that would have guaranteed Arcosa employees continued employment but was voted down by these incumbents.

In online posts, the same information was disseminated as was on the postcards about Arcosa.  In fact, a post on the page actually says this layoff was not due to this wind project but instead due to loss of contracts with GE.  

It may be true that these new candidates were attracted to the County Board meetings by a single issue.  But, what they observed during these meetings was unsettling and drove each to try to make a change for the better. 

Each having diverse backgrounds and experience that they want to contribute, allowed them to recognize the current Board’s shortcomings.  Each of these new candidates, if one would take the time to research, is very concerned about current Board operation.  It is time for a change.

Terry Husted

Clinton, IL 61727

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 21, 2020

Dear Editor:

Over the last three years, DeWitt County has had a very controversial topic at hand.  As somebody who has watched this controversial battle, I want to point out things I’ve noticed about some of the sitting County Board members.

First, I am not impressed that some of our sitting Board members want everyone to know that they are working together to better DeWitt County.  I like independent thinkers and representatives who listen to their constituent’s concerns.

Those who are in Board positions should bring something to the table, such as discussion/conversation, questions, and ideas on how to compromise.  For the 5 sitting Board members who are up for re-election, showing up for meetings unprepared and unengaged seems to be a re-occurring habit. 

When the same Board members vote exactly the same way as the others every time, and don’t initiate conversation or have any questions about important matters, it leaves voters questioning the ability of these Board members to lead this community.

Earlier this year, the ZBA board experienced 17 nights (over 50 hours) of testimony from those who support and oppose the Alta Farms II windfarm project.  Again, as somebody who attended, I witnessed DeWitt County residents come to these meetings night after night, tired from a full day’s work from their own jobs, to listen and testify their concerns.

I can tell you there were 6 County Board members who didn’t even bother to attend these nights.  These same folks wanted to be Board members, but wouldn’t attend meetings that were important to their constituents.  Their lack of attendance, at least for some of the meetings, should concern everyone. 

I will not always agree with how some Board members vote. I accept that. But I cannot accept their desire for voter support now when our County needed them to listen and they failed to do so. 

I wanted to hear how they intend to do, prepare and engage better, to thoroughly discuss issues and better represent their constituents in the future. But no. Instead, voters get mailers falsely blaming those who oppose a windfarm for layoffs at a local company. How ridiculous.  The behaviors of the Board members running for re-election have been unprofessional, and are not the representation DeWitt County voters need and deserve. 

Five sitting Board members are asking for voter’s support for re-election, but because of how these sitting board members have treated their constituents, they deserve to be voted out. 

“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.” – Brene Brown

They didn’t.  But you can.  VOTE – CARTER, KAMMEYER, PRESTEGAARD, and MEYERS.   

Ashley Ooms
Weldon

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 20, 2020

Dear Editor:

Although I consider my time as a County Board member an honor and privilege, I will regrettably be leaving my Board position in December. However, I appreciate and thank those who have supported me. I still believe that the incumbents are the proper choice in this election, and in the strongest terms possible I will show my support for them. 

During my time being associated with these members I discovered what it means to serve the public in an honorable manner. 

 Chairman Newberg and Vice-Chair Redman took their valuable time to mentor me about all of the operations involved as to how the County operates. They enlightened me about the courage it takes to be the best Board member I could be. And I thank them for that time. 

 Mr. Reece, Mr. Nimmo, and Mr. Wickenhauser were always receptive to an open conversation about any issue and always treated me with the upmost respect without any political overtones. 
 The character and integrity of each of these public servants is beyond reproach. The intense desire to be the best Board member possible was always present. 

I am troubled that the reason those opposing these incumbents is a single issue. It bothers me that they aren't looking at the big picture and don't understand the complexities of public service but are only looking to advance their own agenda. This concern by itself should be reason enough to vote for the incumbents!

The time it takes to perform the duties associated with these positions, besides the once a month meeting, is time most people don't understand. The phone calls, texts, and E-mails consume time not accounted for on any time sheet. Following up on concerns of the public can run into multiple location visits and conversations/meetings with those who might be able to help. This time should be expected and gladly spent in an effort to resolve such concerns. The incumbents have shown that ability. 

Economic development should be explored and welcomed by Board members. The incumbents have shown that they believe in growth. However, the challengers have all shown that they disagree with that philosophy by opposing a major development coming into the County. 

 It was a pleasure to serve with these people, and they deserve to continue to serve the citizens of De Witt County. 

Camille Redman, Lance Reece, Dave Newberg, Scott Nimmo, and Jay Wickenhauser have earned your vote and I sincerely hope you also see that when you vote.

 
 Please cast your vote for integrity, dedication, and growth! Elect Newberg, Redman, Reece, Wickenhauser, and Nimmo. 

Respectfully,
Cole Ritter
Hallsville 

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 19, 2020

Dear Editor:
 

 It's time for the American people to have a say in something!  Election Day is just around the corner.  It's time for us to look back on the job being done by the people in office to see if they deserve another term.

 I would like to share my opinion of the local DeWitt County Board members that are serving the county now.  Over the last few years, DeWitt County has had many hard decisions that have needed to be made.

They have worked hard to find answers to problems that benefit all of us that live in DeWitt County. Their experience and knowledge is priceless and has proven their value to those of us that live within this County.

CAMILLE REDMAN and LANCE REECE from District A, CHRISTY PRUSER from District B, and DAVID NEWBERG, JAY WICKHAUSER, and SCOTT NIMMO from District C  have all worked with the other Board members to decide on issues that have been a great benefit to the entire County.

 I have had the opportunity to sit in on some of the Board meetings and have been impressed with the willingness and commitment that is shown in the way the meetings have been conducted.

It is good to see them weigh the pros and cons after many hours behind the scenes studying the proposals that have needed to be decided. 

Many members of various Boards are not willing to put in the time and effort to thoroughly understand the way each and every vote effects the County as a whole.

Please help me show our appreciation for the current County Board members by voting for them to continue the good work they have done and will continue to do for US!

Sonna Hoke

Clinton, IL 61727

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 19, 2020

Dear Editor:
 

There are five candidates running for DeWitt County Board who are honest, hardworking and are currently responsible members of the DeWitt County Board.

They believe in DeWitt County and understand the duties that go along with being a responsible board member. They are for economic growth, against increasing tax burdens, have been active members of our community, and will continue to do a great job for DeWitt County.

Vote for Camille Redman and Lance Reece in "District A" and Dave Newberg, Scott Nimmo, and Jay Wickenhouser in "District C"  Experience counts!

Steven Paddock
Clinton, Il

    

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 19, 2020

Dear Editor:
 

DeWitt County will undoubtedly have many challenges and difficult decisions ahead as a result of the economic hardships caused by a global pandemic. 

Our recovery and eventual growth will require leaders with new ideas and a vision for the future.  It will require leaders who treat others with respect and compassion, and who will listen to and advocate for the residents and employees of the county.

Megan Myers is a servant leader with all of these qualities and more, and she is running for County Board in district C.

When the pandemic first hit and businesses were forced to close, Megan was out distributing “We Will Prevail” and “In It Together” yard signs.  She shows empathy, and works to build community.

Megan has experience in leadership positions, having served on the 4H Foundation Board, and currently serves as a board member of the Clinton Community Educational Foundation, sitting on the Dual Credit and Finance committees.

Megan will bring diversity of thought to a county board that is seventy-five percent male, with district C being the only district that is currently represented 100% by men. 

If you live in DeWitt County District C, which includes Creek and Texas Townships, as well as the southeastern portion of Clinton in Clintonia Township, I respectfully ask that you consider voting for Megan Myers for County Board. 

Joe Witte 
Waynesville

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 19, 2020

Dear Editor:

I’m not a wealthy person by any means, but I will not accept compensation for this office. I believe that the salary could be utilized elsewhere in the office (such as a new website, and increasing the wages of other office workers).  I believe firmly in transparency.  All public information will be public. I will be reasonable, when it comes to payments of fines. Offering longer-term payment plans at reasonable installment rates.  This will prevent the necessity of utilizing a collection agency to collect a fine.

I don't want or need your sympathy votes!

Yes it is true; I am a wheelchair-bound disabled veteran.  This DOES NOT mean I am entitled to your vote.  I would appreciate you just voting for me because of what I can bring to the job, not simply voting for me because of what I am.  Although I may not have the exact technical aspects of a particular job; I have the ability, instilled by the Military, to quickly adapt to any job situation and excel.

Transparency –

The use of secret classifications to keep from the public information that it should have is completely wrong. If I am able to see it, the public should see it. However, there should be some redacted information to protect the privacy of individuals.

Payment plans –

If a person cannot afford the full amount of a fine, in a lump sum, they should be able to set up a payment plan with the court system. This keeps the court from suspending their driver license or sending the fine to a collection agency. ...

Customer service –

I have been told that the workers in the Circuit Clerk’s office are hateful to the public. The Circuit Clerk’s office should be an inviting environment to the public.  This is likely a person’s first interaction with the court system; it should not be a bad one.   New ways to serve the public, without additional spending, should be researched constantly.  Most of these services could be implemented in an online format.

“Convenience traffic court” –

By borrowing the idea from Sangamon County, the citizens of DeWitt County will have the option to appear in court at a more convenient time than their assigned first appearance.

Eligible individuals include: Drivers who received a petty traffic violation and wish to request court supervision. Drivers who received a compliance violation (no insurance card, no insurance, expired registration/sticker, no valid driver's  license, etc.).

Why am I running?  That’s an easy answer, no choice for this position!  How fair is it to the residents of DeWitt County to only have one choice on the ballot in November?  The incumbent was running unopposed, and that isn’t the right thing to have done to the residents of this county.  Either you will vote for the incumbent or for me.  Whatever your choice is, you will at least have a choice for this position come November.

Thank you for your time,

Nathan Florey

Clinton, IL

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 16, 2020

Dear Editor:

 As a current DeWitt County Board member I would like to share some of my observations of the incumbents running for reelection. 

 Dave Newberg as Chairman and Camille Redman as Vice-Chairman have been two of the best leaders of this Board in a long time. They pay attention to what needs to be accomplished and prioritize what needs the Boards immediate attention. They are knowledgeable of the pitfalls of bad decisions and steer the Board in a more positive direction. With their leadership the Board has been a productive and responsible body with no drama or confusion. 

 I am the Vice-Chair of the Public Safety Committee with Lance Reece as its Chairman and I can say with confidence that his performance in resolving ambulance service for my District was an example of dedication to the citizens of DeWitt County. This was a critical care issue that had consequences for over 2,000 residents. He handled the problem with a sense of urgency, spent many hours resolving roadblocks as they appeared, and always kept his eye on ensuring that the citizens were protected! Because of his leadership those citizens are now protected and can rest well at night knowing they have ambulance service. 

 I have watched Jay Wickenhauser as Chairman of the Marina Committee spend an enormous amount of time and effort to make the Marina a more inviting and enjoyable recreational area. Under his guidance the Marina is surely to become a "destination spot" for many Illinois residents. This will not only bring exposure to DeWitt County, it will also increase revenue to make it an even a better destination. 

Because of their performance and abilities they should be retained to continue the forward looking vision for the County and its residents. Your vote for these Candidates is needed for the good of the County. 

Vote for Camille Redman, and Lance Reece in District "A" and Dave Newberg, Scott Nimmo, and Jay Wickenhauser in Distrct "C"

Thank you,
Christy Pruser
DeWitt County Board Member
District B

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 15, 2020

Dear Editor:

After hearing the news that the DeWitt County anti-wind group is suing the County, I feel the necessity to speak out!

We are about to conclude an election which will determine who will be our next representatives on the DeWitt County Board.  We must seriously consider who our best choices are.

I don't think that the four challengers running for these positions are a wise choice! These folks have the backing of the anti-wind group and they have all endorsed the anti-wind group’s cause. Do we really want to elect Board members who are presently backing a lawsuit against the County to make future decisions for the people of DeWitt County?      

I THINK NOT!  Of course, the true irony would be to elect them to sit on a Board that they are in favor of suing. 

I ask you to support and elect the following five non-partisan incumbents.

NEWBERG, NIMMO, and WICKENHAUSER in District C
REDMAN and REECE in District A

Respectfully,
Roger Fatheree
Clinton, IL

 

STATION EDITORIAL

Posted October 7, 2020

This is a station editorial, I'm Randal J. Miller, station president.

Voters on November 3rd will vote on an Illinois constitutional amendment to change the state from a flat income tax to a progressive income tax based on income.

Before you believe the ad campaign being ran by a PAC funded by Governor Pritzker calling it the quote "Fair Tax" to soak the few rich and the fat cats there are left in the state, please consider these points.

Passage of this amendment will give the Legislature unprecedented new authority to increase income tax rates on any group of taxpayers at will – including lower- and middle-income taxpayers and small business owners – and lock those new powers into our State’s Constitution. 

There would be no limit on the number of tax brackets that could be created and no limit on how high tax rates could be increased on groups of individual taxpayers. 

The day after the election, there would be nothing to prevent the Legislature from raising state income taxes on everyone. 

With the state's budget deficit standing at over 6-billion dollars, that's 6-billion with a B, you'd better believe that they won't just be taxing Frank Fat Cat.  They'll come after farmers, small business owners, and middle class families because of the Democrats' penchant for wanting to spend money whether they have it or not.

There hasn't been an OUNCE of discussion about CUTTING the state budget in this year of the coronavirus outbreak.  Not one OUNCE.

When you and I's checkbook doesn't stretch, we cut expenses.  But, Democrats spend, and spend, and spend some more, whether they have the money or not.

And, as they always do, they'll hide behind the state's school children--my grandchildren--stating if this doesn't pass, there will be cuts to the education your children--my grandchildren--receive.

The so-called Fair Tax is anything but.  Anything that gives ANY politician--Democat or Republican--the ability to raise my taxes without any accountability, is a just plain bad idea.

That's our opinion....we welcome yours.  Our e-mail address is editorial@randyradio.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 5, 2020

Dear Editor:

DeWitt County has one of its most important races this year for County Board.

In 2018, all the members elected to the Board were newcomers.  At least one of the newcomers has attended less than 40 percent of the meetings he was scheduled for. None have served as committee chairmen.

When WHOW held a candidates’ forum last week, only the five incumbents showed up, even though all candidates on the ballot were invited.  None of the new people who hope to be elected came to answer questions about their reasons for running or plans for our county. 

What do they have to hide?  If a person plans to run for public office, that person has a duty to make his/her views known to the voters. The residents of DeWitt County were deprived of that, and I believe we should deprive this group of our votes.  I believe we can count on those who showed up, answered Seth Lawrence’s questions, and have worked successfully together for the last several years..

In District A, incumbents are Camille Redman, chair of the finance committee and vice chair of the board.  The board has balanced our budget, kept our county taxes from rising, and has pulled us out of a financial hole created by an earlier, inexperienced board. Her expertise has been invaluable.

Lance Reece is chairman of the health/safety committee and has spent 18 months juggling talks with Farmer City, their former ambulance provider, and the county's current ambulance service, negotiating successfully to make sure the 2,000 residents from Farmer City have access to ambulance service after their former ambulance provider served notice.

In District C, incumbents are Dave Newberg, board chairman, who has turned a part-time position into a full-time one, spending hours nearly every day at the courthouse, checking on each of the county departments and educating himself on their accomplishments and problems.

Jay Wickenhauser is head of the Marina Committee, and one look at what has been accomplished at Clinton Lake’s marina is very impressive. Note the new roof and the ADA compliance additions.

Scott Nimmo, chairman of the property committee, has construction experience and has saved the county lots of money supervising construction projects and concrete work, such as at the animal shelter and ambulance complex.

These people are a mix of Republicans and Democrats, but have worked seamlessly together for years, emphasizing the best interests of DeWitt County. 

Our country and our county need such bipartisan cooperation.

Please vote for experience. It is essential this year.

Becky Adams

Clinton

STATION EDITORIAL

Posted October 4, 2020

This is a station editorial,  I'm Randal J. Miller, station president.  I'm recording this editorial on October 4th during the second day of the 35th annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on the Square.  I'm doing this editorial from this location because I want to give 2 shout outs to 2 great communities.

The first is the Taylorville community and the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest committee for the hard work they put in to pull off the 35th edition of Chillifest.  Chillifest is a 2-day event that features International Chilli Society judging, entertainment on 2 stages, over 90 arts and crafts vendors selling their wares, and chilli in cold quarts being sold by the Chamber as a fund raiser, instead of by the bowl which was eliminated this year due to the coronavirus outbreak.

As a member of the Chillifest committee, I personally know the immense amount of work they did in making sure the event was socially distanced and safe for the public, including encouraging the wearing of masks, and providing countless hand sanitizing stations.  

Several thousand people from out of state and Central Illinois, came to Taylorville for the weekend.  It's the biggest event of the fall season for the Christian County seat.

The other shoutout I want to give, is to my staff and those involved in the September 26th virtual live coverage of the Clinton Apple and Pork Festival.  Although the event itself was cancelled due to the coronavirus, WHOW WEZC station manager Jared White and our news and sports reporter Seth Laurence, spent 8 hours that day at our studios, bringing in representatives from the C-H Moore Museum, who came up with the idea of the Apple and Pork Festival some 50 years ago to raise money to maintain the beautiful house which was turned into a museum.  

White and Laurence also scheduled and interviewed countless representatives from the many non profit organizations that man various booths at the festival, who make their yearly budget with what they make at the festival.  All of these organizations are now having to come up with alternate fund raisers to make their budget to serve the community.

Kudos to all those involved in our WHOW WEZC virtual Apple and Pork Festival coverage, and those who made the 35th annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest happen.  

Both are examples of people who made lemonade out of lemons, and I'm proud of them all.

That's our opinion....we welcome yours.  Our e-mail address is editorial@randyradio.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 2, 2020

Dear Editor:

The upcoming DeWitt County Board race is a serious decision for the county’s future. This race will decide the path of this county’s financial future. Will it be a path of continued achievement or one of confusion and unfortunate errors?

It concerns me that those who are running to replace the seated Board members entered the race only based on the wind farm issue. They have all come out publicly, saying that if they are elected, they will reverse the vote of the Board eliminating this project. These statements show exactly how misinformed they are. It cannot be done without putting the County in "breach of contract" and an almost certain lawsuit. These actions will cost the County's taxpayers many thousands of dollars in litigation which it cannot afford.

They have also stated that the Board should "live within its means". The answer to any financial problems is " a better budget." Again, this shows us how ill-informed they are. The existing Board has always presented a balanced budget, has never run in the red, and have been good stewards of taxpayer money.

They have made these statements but have never explained HOW they were going to fix these perceived problems! Where were these financial watchdogs when the County was in a definite financial strain because of poor decisions made by elected, one issue Board members? Funds were misused and almost depleted. The final budget approved by that board was not balanced and in the red!

Because of these questions, I encourage everyone to vote for those who have proven that they can run this County in a professional and unbiased manner.

Camille Redman and Lance Reece in District A
Dave Newberg, Scott Nimmo, and Jay Wichenhouser in District C

Respectfully,
Barbara McMath  

Clinton

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Posted October 1, 2020

Dear Editor:

Vote for DeWitt County’s future Experience is a valuable characteristic in life and is especially valuable in a leadership position. We need people who are diligent,dedicated,willing to work long hours when working on important decisions, and care about the future of all the residents of DeWitt County.

Camille Redman, Lance Reece in District A and Dave Newberg,Scott Nimmo,and Jay Wickenhauser in District C are some of these leaders. They want to see DeWitt County grow economically and prosper by bringing in new industries. They are fiscally responsible and have never passed a budget that’s not balanced.

They have spent hours lobbying for the Power Plant, finding ways to fund schools and county services without increasing tax burdens and have worked in a bi-partisan manner to make the best decisions for our county.

If you want to see DeWitt County grow, keep budget in the black, maintain our county services and have an experienced group of leaders you will support these individuals.

Regards,
Peggy Lamar

Wapella