Setting the Record Straight: The Facts About Easttown's Governance
As we move through election season, it is essential that our community conversations are grounded in facts. I want to take this opportunity to share how your Township government operates and reaffirm my commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and resident engagement that guide our work every day.
Unprecedented Financial Transparency
We believe that taxpayers have a right to know exactly how their money is being spent. That is why we have established a standard of financial transparency that is clear and accessible to all.
Publicly Available Information: All of our Township's key financial documents, including budgets and expenditure reports, are posted on our official website for anyone to review at any time. There is no secrecy.
Public Approval of All Spending: Every single expenditure is approved in public Board of Supervisors meetings. We go a step further by posting a detailed check register on our website before each meeting, so residents can review every payment before it is even approved.
Responsible Stewardship: This open process ensures that all spending is accounted for and that we are responsible stewards of your tax dollars. There is no need for any resident to incur taxpayer-funded legal fees to obtain financial information that is already freely and publicly available to everyone.
An Open and Responsive Government
Our government is most effective when residents and business owners are heard and respected. We have built a culture of responsiveness and engagement.
Your Voice in Meetings: Our public meetings are designed for resident participation. We provide time for public comment on every agenda item before we vote, and we hold a general public comment period at the end of every meeting. We are here to listen.
Dedicated Staff: Our Township staff works tirelessly to address the needs and concerns of our community. We are incredibly proud of their professionalism and are fortunate to have a large collection of "thank yous" from residents who have been helped by their dedication. No voice is ignored.
Fair and Inclusive Community Service
Our volunteer boards and committees are the backbone of our local government. We believe these positions should be open to every resident who wishes to serve.
Ending "Lifetime Appointments": We have ended the old practice of automatically reappointing board members. Now, when a term expires, the position is publicly advertised, and we invite any resident to apply.
Appointments Based on Merit: My only consideration when appointing someone to a board is their qualifications and their commitment to serving our community. We want the best people serving Easttown, regardless of their background.
A Call for Volunteers: In fact, many of our boards need more applicants. We encourage every resident to visit the Township website, see what openings are available, and consider volunteering to help shape our community’s future.
Leadership That Serves You
Being a Supervisor is about being a representative, not a ruler. It is a commitment to serve the interests of the entire community, to facilitate respectful dialogue, and to ensure that every decision is made with accountability. While we cannot control the conversations that happen in private groups, we as your elected officials will continue to foster a community where we work together for the good of Easttown.
I am proud of our record of open, accountable, and responsive government. I will continue to work every day to earn your trust and ensure that Easttown remains a well-run and wonderful place to live.
Thank you for your continued support.