In a major expansion of public participation, the Cook County Board of Commissioners last week approved a process that will allow citizens to more easily comment on pending legislation. Ordinance Amendment 17-3293 will allow individuals to submit a “Record of Committee Witness” form online to support or oppose legislation without testifying in person. The form will also allow individuals to submit a written statement of support or opposition.
The League of Women Voters of Cook County endorses this measure, which will make Cook County government more accessible, transparent, and accountable to its constituents. Cook County League Co-Presidents Peggy Kell and Nancy Marcus wrote a letter to the Board of Commissioners in support of the measure.
“The League of Women Voters strongly encourages public participation at every level of government,” said Ms. Marcus. “The Board’s implementation of an online witness slip procedure will give citizens a greater voice in County government, as the Illinois General Assembly’s use of such a procedure has done at the state level.”
Ms. Kell said, “The Cook County League is very pleased that the Board approved Commissioner Larry Suffredin’s measure. We look forward to helping the County implement the process, and to helping raise public awareness of it.”
Submitted by the League of Women Voters of Cook County
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