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Archive for the ‘Guest Essay’ Category

Pritzker Embraces Democratic Socialists of America as Part of Democrats’ Recipe to Win – Wirepoints

Posted in Clown Car, Deception, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Education, Elections, Guest Essay, Immigration, Land Disconnection, Land Use, Lipstick On A Pig, Look For The Union Label, Pension Funding, Politics, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Real Estate, School Districts, Snowflake Effect, Taxes, The New Normal?, Topics Of Interest, Transparency, Unions, Village Code, Wirepoints on July 7, 2026| Leave a Comment »

By: Mark Glennon* | Wirepoints

Gov. JB Pritzker left no doubt about where he stands in the growing schism within the Democratic party about its surge toward the radical left. CNN’s Kaitlan Collins asked him directly on June 30 if it’s good that Democratic primary voters recently chose Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidates over more moderate Democratic incumbents.

Pritzker answered that as long as they are talking about affordability and oppose Trump, “those are the people who are winning” and embracing progressive/in Democratic Socialist candidates is “the recipe for winning in 2026 and beyond.” Here’s the clip:

Many key Democrats are revolting against the growing elements of socialism in their party.  As the left-leaning Guardian put it:

Over the last few days, prominent party figures have moved away from unifying under a “blue no matter who” banner to push for a more formal break with their left flank, and said the moment may have arrived for Democrats to confront their more socialist wing.

No less than veteran Democratic political advisor James Carvill recently said “it’s time for Democrats to talk the S-word: schism,” He added that some DSA-aligned candidates “have no place in the Democratic party” and, of the broader coalition: “I’m not in that fucking political party.”

Other prominent Democrats speaking up against the party’s growing leftism include Jaime Harrison, the former chair of the Democratic national committee, former New York governor David Paterson and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. And the left-leaning Atlantic wrote that, while the DSA is “anything but Democratic,” its clever subversion of the Democratic Party will be difficult to stop.

In case you don’t already know – and you should – here’s some of what the DSA supports:

  • Abolishing ICE, demilitarizing the border, ending all deportations, granting immediate amnesty to all immigrants regardless of status and guaranteeing access to jobs, labor rights and social services
  • Abolishing the Senate, expanding the House, voting rights for noncitizens and people with criminal convictions, statehood to the District of Columbia, replace the two‑party system with proportional representation,  limit the Supreme Court’s power of judicial review, and replace the Electoral College with a national popular vote
  • Medicare for All with no health care premiums, co‑pays or deductibles, including reproductive and gender‑affirming care
  • Tuition‑free public higher education, eliminating out‑of‑pocket costs for room and board, and canceling all student loan debt
  • Universal rent control, guaranteed legal representation for tenants, and major public investment in social housing
  • Free universal childcare and pre‑K, expansive paid family leave, a 32‑hour workweek with no loss in pay or benefits
  • Higher rates on the wealthiest earners, for‑profit corporations, large inheritances and private colleges and universities, as well as a wealth tax on the ultra‑rich
  • A Green New Deal to end fossil fuels, guarantees for displaced workers and public ownership of major transportation, energy infrastructure and natural resources
  • Ending mandatory minimums and cash bail, demilitarizing police departments and treating drug addiction as a public health issue

For the sake of the nation, we can only hope that, on this, America agrees with James Carville: “I’m not in that f-ing party.”

*Mark Glennon is founder of Wirepoints. 

Source

Editorial note: Maria Peterson (pictured below with JB Pritzker) appears to have made a profession for years running for offices with the financial backing of JB Pritzker, among others. In 2022 she ran unsuccessfully for Illinois State Senate and in 2024 she lost her bid for Illinois House 52nd District Representative.

Maria Peterson and JB Pritzker | Courtesy Maria Peterson’s Facebook page

Currently she is feverishly campaigning again for 52nd District Representative, and there is absolutely no doubt if successful, she will back all of JB Pritzker’s initiatives and likely those of the Democratic Socialists of America.  This includes Pritzker’s stalled “BUILD Initiative” which would strip property rights from residents and place all zoning controls in the hands of Springfield politicians and unions.

Please don’t consider this as our being negative, as some might. Instead, think of it for what it is – fact.

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South Barrington Mayor Paula McCombie shares an update on Hoffman Estates/Plum Farms Plan Commission meeting

Posted in Cook, County, Guest Essay, Hoffman Estates, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Plum Farm development, Politics, Property Taxes, Public Safety, Real Estate, School Districts, South Barrington, Taxes, Topics Of Interest, Traffic, Transparency on June 5, 2026| 1 Comment »

“Dear Residents

This week, I participated in an important meeting of the Hoffman Estates Plan Commission regarding a proposed rezoning of the 186-acre Plum Farms property, located north of Route 72 and west of Route 59. This proposal has significant implications for South Barrington and the surrounding communities.
The requested M-2 zoning classification would permit the development of a data center on the site, which was the primary concern raised during the meeting. More than 45 residents provided public comments, and every speaker expressed opposition to the proposed zoning change.

During the meeting, I addressed the Plan Commission to voice South Barrington’s opposition to the rezoning request. I emphasized that M-2 zoning for this highly visible corner property is inconsistent with the long-term economic development strategies pursued by both South Barrington and Hoffman Estates. Our communities have invested considerable effort in establishing this area as a destination for retail, dining, entertainment, and other complementary commercial uses. A data center does not align with that vision or with the character of our surrounding communities.

The meeting drew more than 400 attendees, and every speaker who addressed the Commission voiced objections to the proposed development. As a strategic partner with Hoffman Estates, it was my hope that the Plan Commission would recognize the shared objectives of our communities and decline to recommend the requested zoning change.

Ultimately, the Plan Commission voted 4-2 against the rezoning request. The matter will now be forwarded to the Hoffman Estates Village Board for final consideration, with the earliest possible hearing scheduled for June 15th.

I will continue to keep everyone informed as this process moves forward. Thank you to the many residents of Barrington, Hoffman Estates, Barrington Hills, and neighboring communities who attended the meeting, submitted letters, and voiced their opposition. Your engagement and advocacy played an important role in ensuring that community perspectives were clearly heard throughout this process.

For more news articles related to this, see below:

Daily Herald: Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Rezoning Request for Possible Data Center
CBS News: Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Zoning Change for New Data Center Project
Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Rezoning Request for Possible Data Center“‘

We’d like to thank Mayor McCombie once again for keeping residents informed.

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Celebrate America 250 with The Land We Love Run to Support Folds of Honor

Posted in Contests, Cuba Township, Folds of Honor, Fundraisers, Guest Essay, The Land We Love Run, VBHPD on May 23, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Neighbors & Friends –

Join us as we kick off the America 250 celebration 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 on Sunday, June 28, 2026, with the annual “The Land We Love Run” through Barrington Hills! Brought to you by the Village of Barrington Hills and Cuba Township The Land We Love Run starts at 7:30 am from Cuba Township, and offers 5k & 10k runs and a 2 mile walk.  Come out to enjoy our beautiful Village and to support our Heroes!

Our 5k and 10k 🏃‍♂️🏃🏼‍♀️ courses are certified and professionally chip timed.

Compete in the Team Competition 🙌 Put together your team of 3 or more for camaraderie, bragging rights, and to compete for fun prizes!

Police 👮🏻 monitored routes with age-based awards 🥇, and water/aid stations. Stay for the award ceremony, refreshments and fun following the run.

All proceeds to benefit Folds of Honor – Chicago, a National organization with a local presence that provides scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled Service Members and First Responders. Donations are also being accepted to the Cuba Township Food Pantry, addressing Barrington-area residents’ food insecurity needs.

It’s a HILL of a RUN!
Hope to see you and your friends and colleagues on June 28th! 

You don’t run? Consider volunteering or sponsorship!

Sponsorship levels are:

  • America 250 Sponsor $2,500 Recognition on Website, Logo on T-shirts, Race Banner, American 250 Banner, 10 Race Entries, Space for Table/Tent
  • 1776 Sponsor $1,776 Logo on T-shirts, Race Banner, 5 Race Entries
  • Liberty Sponsor $1,000 Logo on Race Banner
  • Freedom Sponsor $500 Logo on Water Station Signs

***SPONSORSHIP MUST BE CONFIRMED BY MAY 27th TO GUARANTEE LOGO ON T-SHIRTS***

Click for SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION & FORM

We appreciate you forwarding this invitation to any who might be interested in participating and/or sponsorship.

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South Barrington Mayor Paula McCombie provides an update of Pritzker’s proposed BUILD Act

Posted in BACOG, Data Center, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Elections, Guest Essay, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Land Use, Politics, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, School Districts, South Barrington, Springfield, Unions, Village Code, Zoning Board on May 16, 2026| 1 Comment »

Posted yesterday, May 15:

“This week, I attended the Northwest Municipal Conference meeting where one of the major topics discussed was a status update regarding the proposed Build Illinois Act (BUILD).

As many of you know, the Governor and state legislators are working to advance legislation that could significantly impact local zoning authority throughout Illinois. If passed, the BUILD Act would allow the State greater control over zoning and development decisions that have historically been managed at the local level by municipalities and their residents.

While supporters argue the bill is intended to address housing shortages and increase development opportunities, many communities, including ours, are concerned about the potential loss of local control and the one-size-fits-all approach the legislation could create.  Every community has unique infrastructure, traffic patterns, environmental considerations, and development goals, and many believe these decisions are best made locally rather than mandated at the state level.  One of the things the Bill requires is that municipalities allow up to 8- unit multi-family buildings in all single-family zoning districts while drastically reducing the minimum lot sizes and setback requirements.

Below are some of the examples and challenges on this part of the bill that communities may face should this bill pass.

Both the Illinois Municipal League (IML), representing 1,294 municipalities statewide, and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, representing approximately 275 cities, towns, and villages, oppose the bill in its current form. For those concerned, I encourage all residents to contact your Legislators and Governor’s office and make your voices heard regarding your concerns with this proposed legislation.

Darby Hills, State Senate
Springfield Office: 217-782-8010, District Office: 224-662-4544

Marty McLaughlin, State Representative
RepMcLaughlin@gmail.com
Springfield Office: 217-782-1517, District Office: 224-634-8300

Nabeela Syed, State Representative
info@repsyed.com
Springfield Office: 217-782-3696, District Office: 773-916-6553

Governors Office

Springfield
817-782-6830 or 217-782-6831
Chicago
312-814-2121 or 312-814-2122

IMPORTANT AND HELPFUL LINKS BELOW:

  • Full Building Up Illinois Act HERE
  • Informative presentation put together by the City of Peoria with more examples of what the suggested changes could look like in our community: LINK HERE“

Thank you so much, Mayor McCombie!

Related: “Pritzker’s affordable housing plan gets Senate hearing as municipalities remain opposed,” “Village of Barrington President shares perspectives on Pritzker’s BUILD plans,” “(Ignoring public opinion) Pritzker says of BUILD Plan for homes would not cost taxpayers,” “Gov. JB Pritzker’s ambitious housing plan for Illinois: More four-flats, looser rules,” “Pritzker to propose statewide zoning laws to spur homebuilding, limit local control,” “McLaughlin’s press conference video recording regarding Pritzker’s proposed municipal zoning powers grab posted,” “‘It’s just a bad idea’: Suburban officials oppose Pritzker’s plan to reduce local control over residential It’s just zoning”

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Over $100,000 in Special Interest Funding gifted to 220 Board member’s campaign in failed bid for State Rep job

Posted in 220, AI, Barrington Education Association, Board of Education, Conflict of interest, Data Center, Deception, District 220 referendum, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Education, Elections, Ethics, Guest Essay, Illinois Federation of Teachers, Look For The Union Label, Politics, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, School Districts, South Barrington, Springfield, Taxes, Unions, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on April 7, 2026| 1 Comment »

“As a resident of Barrington, IL, I am deeply concerned about the actions of one of our School Board members, Erin Chan Ding, who has admitted to violating School Board policy, using her position for personal gain and political leverage. Her recent activities have raised eyebrows in our community, as it seems she is prioritizing her run for the Democratic candidate for State Representative of the 52nd District over her duties and responsibilities to our children and community. The Board has already voted that she has flagrantly violated School Board policy.

School Board members should exemplify unbiased dedication to the educational needs and welfare of our students. However, it has come to light that this individual is leveraging her role for publicity to further her political career, diverting attention from our District’s educational priorities. Our students deserve leaders who are fully committed to their well-being, not those looking for personal advancement or caught in political machinations.

Evidence of this misuse includes multiple occasions where she solicited petition signatures during school events in violation of Board policies. She was warned by the Board President in July of the violations and her need to adhere to Board policies and she agreed to do so. Despite these admonitions and Chan Ding’s agreement to adhere to policy in July, she’s continued to repeatedly violate policy. The Board voted for remedial training as the consequence for her violations. This is not an acceptable response to her conscious decision to repeatedly violate the very policies she presided over as one of the 2 Board members on the Policy Committee; particularly where Chan Ding was warned by Board President Bradford publicly at the July Board meeting of the violations but continued violations despite the public admonitions.

Chan Ding’s interests align more with her political campaigning ambitions than with School Board responsibilities. Furthermore, decisions made on critical educational issues are now being scrutinized for potential conflicts of interest influenced by her political agenda. This is not the kind of behavior we can afford to permit, as it undermines the trust and integrity essential to governing bodies like our Board of Education.

Removing this member will not only help restore the Board’s focus on its core mission but also sends a clear message that our community will not stand for misconduct or exploitation of elected positions for ulterior motives. It’s crucial that our School Board reflects the best interests of our students and maintains an unwavering commitment to their education and growth.

Join me in calling for the removal of Chan Ding to ensure our Board remains a place for sincere, student-centered service. Let’s protect the integrity of Barrington’s educational system and hold our officials accountable. Sign this petition today to take a stand for our schools and community.”

Read more here.

Related: “New Evidence of Chan Ding’s Policy Violations and Conflicts of Interest,” “Candidate Erin Chan Ding’s opinion on Data Centers,” “Barrington area Democrats condemn Chan Ding mailers,” “The D220 Board of Ed gets another ‘F’ in accountability & transparency,” “School district’s parking plan defies logic,” “Zoning change defies village policy,” “The Real Issue in Barrington 220 Isn’t Parking or Levies — It’s Leadership Culture,” “Change.org Petition: ‘For the Resignation of Erin Chan Ding ~ D220 Resources are Not for Political Campaigns’,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS – Part 2,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS,” “Erin Chan Ding: The violations just keep piling up…,” “Erin Chan Ding starring in another episode of, ‘Rules For Thee But NOT For Me…’,”  “District 220’s Lack of Transparency (Updated),” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency,” “Ding Politicking on School District Property,” “Dual School Board and State Rep Positions Legally Incompatible,” “D220 Abuses Taxpayer Funds in favor of Partisan Campaign,” “Ding In Her Own Words – CONFLICTED!,” “Ding Doubles Down,” “Ding’s D220 Deception,” “Chan Ding running in Democratic primary in 52nd,” “Three (3) Democratic candidates queued to run for the IL 52nd District House seat in 2026”

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New Evidence of Chan Ding’s Policy Violations and Conflicts of Interest

Posted in 220, AI, Barrington Education Association, Board of Education, Data Center, Deception, District 220 referendum, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Elections, Ethics, Guest Essay, Illinois Federation of Teachers, OP/Ed, Politics, Property Taxes, School Districts, South Barrington, Springfield, Taxes, Unions, What the Ficke (Bradford)? on March 17, 2026| 3 Comments »

$20,000 in Special Interest Funding & Continued Violations of Public Trust

By Better Barrington | @Change.org

Thank you for standing with us as we hold our elected officials accountable. We have a critical update regarding the petition for the resignation of Erin Chan Ding from the Barrington 220 Board of Education.

Despite previous reprimands by the Board of Trustees for “flagrant violations” of school board policy, public records now reveal a deepening web of financial conflicts that directly undermine the neutrality of our district’s leadership.

The newest Schedule A-1 filings for Chan Ding’s political campaign reveal a massive influx of cash from organizations that represent the very interests she is tasked with negotiating against on behalf of taxpayers:

  • $10,000 from the IPACE (Illinois Professional Action Committee for Education). In Barrington D220, the Barrington Education Association (BEA) is the local teachers union. BEA is an affiliate of the Illinois Education Association which operates IPACE as its political arm.
  • $10,000 from the Lake County Federation of Teachers Local 504 COPE PAC.
  • Public Endorsements: Her campaign is now openly touting endorsements from the IEA and the Illinois Federation of Teachers—entities representing over 240,000 educators statewide.

Why This Matters: A Breach of Board Policy

District 220 policies are not suggestions; they are the ethical framework that protects our schools from partisan capture. Chan Ding is in direct conflict with:

  • Policy 2:105 (Ethics and Gift Ban): Sets strict standards to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure public trust.
  • Policy 2:80 (Board Member Oath & Conduct): Explicitly mandates that members avoid the appearance of impropriety and refuse to surrender responsibilities to “special interest or partisan political groups.”

In her first Board of Ed campaign, when called out for taking $750 in donations from IPACE, Chan Ding told the Chicago Tribune she would not approve contracts that raise taxes, yet her voting record tells a different story. She has consistently voted for the maximum tax levy every time it has reached the floor.

Accepting $20,000 from unions that negotiate directly with the Board of Ed is not just a “political choice”—it is a disqualifying conflict of interest. A Board Member cannot serve two masters. You cannot be a neutral steward of taxpayer funds while being funded by the organizations seeking those same funds.

We continue to call for the resignation of Erin Chan Ding to restore integrity to the D220 Board.

  1. Share this update: Post this on Facebook, X, and local community groups.
  2. Attend the next Board Meeting: Let your voice be heard during public comment.
  3. Email the Board: Remind them that Policy 2:80 must be enforced, not ignored.

Related: “Candidate Erin Chan Ding’s opinion on Data Centers,” “Barrington area Democrats condemn Chan Ding mailers,” “The D220 Board of Ed gets another ‘F’ in accountability & transparency,” “School district’s parking plan defies logic,” “Zoning change defies village policy,” “The Real Issue in Barrington 220 Isn’t Parking or Levies — It’s Leadership Culture,” “Change.org Petition: ‘For the Resignation of Erin Chan Ding ~ D220 Resources are Not for Political Campaigns’,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS – Part 2,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS,” “Erin Chan Ding: The violations just keep piling up…,” “Erin Chan Ding starring in another episode of, ‘Rules For Thee But NOT For Me…’,”  “District 220’s Lack of Transparency (Updated),” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency,” “Ding Politicking on School District Property,” “Dual School Board and State Rep Positions Legally Incompatible,” “D220 Abuses Taxpayer Funds in favor of Partisan Campaign,” “Ding In Her Own Words – CONFLICTED!,” “Ding Doubles Down,” “Ding’s D220 Deception,” “Chan Ding running in Democratic primary in 52nd,” “Three (3) Democratic candidates queued to run for the IL 52nd District House seat in 2026”

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The Real Issue in Barrington 220 Isn’t Parking or Levies — It’s Leadership Culture

Posted in 220, Barrington Education Association, Barrington High School, Board of Education, Deception, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Education, Elections, Fools and their money, Guest Essay, Illinois Federation of Teachers, OP/Ed, Overhead, Politics, Property Taxes, School Districts, Taxes, Topics Of Interest, Transparency, Unions on December 5, 2025| 1 Comment »

I attended the Barrington 220 Board of Education meeting (Tuesday), arriving shortly after six o’clock. I expected what most engaged residents expect: the chance to be heard. Instead, I watched a familiar story unfold, one that extends far beyond the night’s agenda item and deep into the culture that now defines our district.

Residents spoke passionately about their neighborhoods, some living there for three decades or more, describing the consequences the proposed Hager Ave. parking expansion would bring to safety, congestion, character, and precedent. They offered facts, first-hand observations, alternative solutions, and historical context.

And yet, rather than engaging with the substance, district leadership defaulted to performance: head-nods, polished reassurances, carefully crafted anecdotes including the now-infamous story of a parent who bought a second home in 1999 to secure a parking spot for their child. It was more than tone-deaf; it was revealing.

As community members spoke from lived experience, Superintendent Winkelman responded with scripted confidence, as if the concerns in front of him were theoretical or uninformed. It was an extraordinary display of disconnect, one that didn’t seem to register, even as residents grew visibly upset at being spoken at instead of spoken with.

But here’s the truth:

The parking lot is not the real issue.
The levy is not the real issue.
The real issue is leadership culture.

And this culture is showing itself everywhere.

A Pattern of Selective Listening and Selective Accountability

This past year alone, I and many other residents have tried to raise concerns- not political, not personal, but about professionalism, ethics, safety, and financial responsibility.

✔ When a teacher made dismissive comments about parents in front of students
The administration reframed it as a “Back-to-School Night misunderstanding,” defended the teacher, and never addressed the core issue:
students heard an adult ridicule parent concerns.
No acknowledgment. No ownership.

✔ When a Board member launched a partisan legislative campaign while still serving on the Board
Policies 2:80-E and 2:105 were bent to their narrowest possible interpretation.
The district even used taxpayer-funded legal counsel to review campaign-related conflicts — despite policies prohibiting such use of public resources.
Again, no accountability. Only justification.

✔ When a police incident caused confusion and fear before school
Parents were left in the dark. Staff did not know whether classes were even proceeding.
My written request for communication improvements and safety prioritization received no response at all.
Across situations big and small, the message has been the same:
the district hears what’s convenient and ignores what isn’t. 

Meanwhile, the Financial Picture Raises Even More Concerns

A comprehensive review of FOIA-obtained documents — leases, contracts, amendments, utility agreements, activity fund reports — shows systemic problems in stewardship:

✔ Millions in lease-financing at 5–8% interest
Even while the district held over $100 million in reserves.
Apple leases alone contain more than $340,000 in hidden interest.
Canon, HP, Toshiba, and bus leases add far more.

✔ Architectural & engineering spending exceeding contract caps by over $2 million
Build 220 fees now exceed 9% of construction value despite a contractual limit of 7.4%.
Much of the excess came from avoidable redesigns, duplicated work, and over-scoped civil engineering packages.

✔ Electricity & natural-gas procurement without competitive bidding
Dynegy and Symmetry contracts cost $500k–$900k more than market alternatives.
No evidence of competitive evaluation exists.

✔ Student Activity Fund red flags
Thirty months of reconciliations show:

  • identical manual adjustments,
  • unusually large journal entries (up to $72,800),
  • volatile disbursements,
  • zero variances for 30 straight months — mathematically improbable without plug entries.

These are not isolated incidents.
This is a systemic pattern of weak controls and limited oversight. 

Yet the district continues asking the community for more money.

When residents raise safety issues — silence.
When residents raise ethics issues — deflection.
When residents raise spending issues — no corrective action or acknowledgment.
When residents raise neighborhood concerns — they are told stories from 1999.
But when the district wants more taxes?
Suddenly conversation becomes urgent.
This dynamic speaks for itself. 

A Community Willing to Invest — But Only in Leadership That Invests in Us

Barrington residents value education.
We value our schools.
We value our teachers.
But investment requires trust — and trust must be earned through humility, responsiveness, transparency, and accountability.
Right now, the district is asking for more money while:

  • avoiding difficult conversations,
  • dismissing legitimate community concerns,
  • overlooking internal issues,
  • and falling short of its own values.

Barrington 220 speaks often about transparency, collaboration, and respect.
It’s time for those principles to move from slogans into practice. 

The Community Showed Up. Now It’s the District’s Turn.

The public comment at the recent meeting showed a community that is informed, engaged, and deeply invested in the future of its schools.
That level of passion deserves more than nods, reassurances, and pre-scripted narrative management.
It deserves reciprocal honesty.
It deserves accountability.
It deserves leadership that listens.

Before asking for another tax levy, Barrington 220 must commit to:

  • full financial transparency,
  • competitive and responsible procurement,
  • ethical consistency,
  • genuine respect for parent and student voices,
  • and authentic partnership.

A levy may or may not be necessary.
But trust is not optional — and right now, trust is what needs rebuilding most.

Sam Mehic
South Barrington

Related: “Change.org Petition: ‘For the Resignation of Erin Chan Ding ~ D220 Resources are Not for Political Campaigns’,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS – Part 2,” “BOARD OF ED VOTES, MEMBER CHAN DING MADE FLAGRANT POLICY VIOLATIONS,” “Erin Chan Ding: The violations just keep piling up…,” “Erin Chan Ding starring in another episode of, ‘Rules For Thee But NOT For Me…’,”  “District 220’s Lack of Transparency (Updated),” “District 220’s Lack of Transparency,” “Ding Politicking on School District Property,” “Dual School Board and State Rep Positions Legally Incompatible,” “D220 Abuses Taxpayer Funds in favor of Partisan Campaign,” “Ding In Her Own Words – CONFLICTED!,” “Ding Doubles Down,” “Ding’s D220 Deception,” “Chan Ding running in Democratic primary in 52nd,” “Three (3) Democratic candidates queued to run for the IL 52nd District House seat in 2026”

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McLaughlin: Change necessary soon in Springfield

Posted in Daily Herald, Economy, Guest Essay, Resident Spotlights, Springfield, Topics Of Interest on June 8, 2025| 3 Comments »

Rep. Marty McLaughlin, R-Barrington Hills

By Rep. Martin McLaughlin | Published in the Daily Herald

Illinois has long been a pillar of American finance, from the iconic trading floors of Chicago to the small-town community banks that fuel local economies. But today, that foundation is cracking.

Earlier this year, Pulaski Savings Bank in Chicago became the first U.S. bank failure of 2025. Investigators uncovered a fraud scheme that left the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) with a $28.5 million loss. Though the incident was isolated, it revealed how fragile some of our financial institutions have become, particularly in an environment where regulatory frameworks are unclear, oversight is uneven, and compliance burdens disproportionately harm smaller players.

Unfortunately, the Pulaski collapse isn’t the only sign of trouble. Illinois’ commercial banking industry is expected to shrink this year, with revenues projected to fall to $67.8 billion. Venture capital investment in the state has dropped by more than half since 2021. And between mid-2023 and mid-2024, Illinois lost more than 56,000 residents, more than 8,000 of them from Chicago.

These numbers don’t lie: people and businesses are leaving. Among those leaving are precisely the professionals we need to drive financial innovation — technologists, investors and entrepreneurs. They’re choosing to relocate to places where it’s easier to get a loan, launch a startup or raise a family — states like Indiana, Florida and Texas, which are lowering taxes, simplifying regulations and investing in innovation.

Illinois, by contrast, has doubled down on high taxes, restrictive rules and bureaucratic sprawl. Thousands of private-sector jobs have vanished, and venture capital investment in Illinois dropped more than 50% from 2021 to 2023. Corporate icons like Boeing and Caterpillar have moved their headquarters out of state. Meanwhile, the number of state employees continues to grow, and pension liabilities balloon, even as the state’s population shrinks. Projections suggest Illinois could see a one-third decline in high school graduates by 2040.

Instead of taking steps to attract economic growth and financial innovation, the state and federal governments are layering on more uncertainty.

One example is Illinois’ Interchange Fee Prohibition Act, set to take effect on July 1. The law aims to protect consumers from high debit and credit card fees, but the local business owners and community bankers I speak with are deeply concerned it will do just the opposite.

The law is vague and poorly communicated and merchants don’t know how it will impact their payment systems. Local banks are unsure whether their infrastructure will remain compliant, and small retailers worry about delays it may cause in card processing — or worse, being forced to raise prices or go cash-only. In small towns, where margins are tight and every customer counts, these disruptions could be devastating.

Then there’s the federal lawsuit filed last year by the Department of Justice against Visa, the preferred debit card exchange in much of Illinois, alleging that it has too much market power. But Visa operates in a competitive market with dozens of alternative networks. The businesses and community banks I have spoken to say the case feels less like a serious effort to promote competition and more like a Washington micromanagement effort that will create needless instability for the Illinois residents who depend on these platforms every day.

We cannot allow Illinois to fall further behind. A growing number of states are rolling out the welcome mat for financial firms and fintech startups. Illinois, with its legacy of banking excellence and world-class institutions, should be leading that charge — not watching from the sidelines.

To do that, we must change course. That starts with reforming our tax and regulatory policies to encourage growth, not drive it away. We need to work closely with community banks to support responsible lending, especially in underserved areas. We must protect small businesses from the confusion and cost spikes caused by unclear federal mandates. And we should push back against legal and regulatory overreach that discourages investment and undermines confidence in our financial infrastructure.

But this isn’t just about markets. It’s about trust. Families and business owners need to believe that Springfield is working with them, not against them. They need to see that Illinois can be a place where hard work and smart risk-taking are rewarded — not buried in red tape.

Illinois has the tools: the talent, the institutions and the geographical advantages. What’s lacking is the political will to act boldly and decisively.

If we want to reverse the exodus of people and capital, revitalize our financial sector and restore Illinois’ standing as a hub of innovation, we must be willing to embrace reform — and soon. Our future depends on it.

State Rep. Martin McLaughlin is a Republican from Barrington Hills.

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Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar exemplifies courage, candor and stewardship

Posted in Chicago Tribune, Guest Essay, Politics, Springfield on March 31, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Former Gov. Jim Edgar speaks during the Illinois GOP delegation breakfast at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort in Clearwater Beach, Florida, before the start of the Republican National Convention on Aug. 27, 2012. | Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune

By John T. Shaw | Posted in the Chicago Tribune 

When Jim Edgar first ran for governor of Illinois, he faced a dilemma that has haunted and hounded politicians since the dawn of time. Should he do the easy but wrong thing or the hard but right thing? History shows that far more leaders have opted for the former than the latter.

Specifically, Edgar was in a tough gubernatorial campaign in 1990 with popular Democratic Illinois Attorney General Neil Hartigan. A central issue was whether a temporary income tax surcharge that had been approved several years earlier should be extended. Nearly everyone in state government was counting on the revenues generated by the tax extension, but not everyone was willing to say so publicly. Another timeless story.

Hartigan played it safe and opposed the tax extension. Edgar took a risk and told the truth that the revenues were necessary for the services that the public wanted, especially education. “I don’t want the people of Illinois to be surprised by anything I do after the election, and they won’t be,” Edgar told voters several months before they cast their ballots.

Not all of his political advisers supported his decision or at least his public declaration. However, the voters of Illinois appreciated his honesty and elected him by a narrow margin that fall. Four years later, Edgar was reelected in a landslide, carrying 101 of the state’s 102 counties, including Cook County.

Edgar’s courage and candor on the tax issue exemplifies statesmanship.

As did his approach to governing. Edgar was conservative in the most honorable sense of that word and philosophy. He was committed to conserving and preserving — to stewardship. Prudence is a neglected feature of statesmanship. Edgar believed in limited but effective government. He pushed tough spending cuts but also boosted funds for early childhood programs, other preventive programs and education. Frugal and tight-fisted, he was sometimes referred to as “Governor No.” It should be noted that he inherited a large budget deficit and left his successor with a sizable surplus. Sometimes, statesmanship means saying no.

Popular and respected, Edgar decided to retire after eight years as governor. He became a senior fellow at the Institute of Government and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois (IGPA) and has devoted much of his time to teaching and mentoring.

Most notably, he created the Edgar Fellows program at IGPA. Every August, he brings 40 young leaders in local and state government, business and labor to a conference center in Champaign for a week to study government, delve into public policy issues and learn from the reflections of veteran leaders.

In its 13th year, there are now more than 400 Edgar Fellows alumni who live across Illinois and work in all sectors. Edgar hopes these fellows from various backgrounds and political beliefs will work together to help solve many of the challenges facing the state.

Edgar’s focus on the future is also evident in his work with my institute on the Paul Simon-Jim Edgar Statesmanship Award.

The annual award celebrates exceptional leadership in Illinois by a state and local government official. It goes to a statesperson who has demonstrated unusual vision, courage, compassion, civility, effectiveness and bipartisanship. Each award recipient to date has offered a special tribute to Edgar for his inspiration and example.

Now in its fifth year, the award generates nominations of accomplished and inspiring mayors, city council members, county commissioners, constitutional officers, members of the General Assembly and others. It is a tangible indicator that statesmanship is still alive and well and is often occurring in quiet ways, away from the headlines.

Edgar’s legacy of courage, candor and stewardship deserves our gratitude. Principled statesmanship, he has demonstrated, can solve problems, command public respect and build a better future.

John T. Shaw is director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute. Shaw’s columns, exclusive to the Tribune, appear the last Monday of each month. His most recent book is “The Education of a Statesman: How Global Leaders Can Repair a Fractured World.” 

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Addressing the Leadership and Cultural Failures at Barrington 220

Posted in 220, Agendas, Board of Education, Education, Guest Essay, OP/Ed, Property Taxes, Public Safety, School Districts on January 17, 2025| Leave a Comment »

To the Editor:

I am compelled to share my ongoing concerns about Barrington 220’s leadership, which I believe has prioritized performative gestures and social initiatives over addressing the actionable and critical issues that directly affect students, parents, and the community at large.

1. Failure to Respond to Public Safety Concerns

On two separate occasions—during fugitive search incidents in South Barrington and Lake Barrington—the district failed to communicate timely updates to parents regarding the safety and whereabouts of our children. Despite the clear urgency of these situations, there were no communication protocols in place to inform parents whether their children were being picked up or released safely. As a parent, I reached out via email to the superintendent and board members, only to be met with complete silence. This lack of acknowledgment during a crisis is both alarming and unacceptable.

2. Dismissive and Deflective Leadership

When I raised concerns about safety communication failures, staff behavior, and a dismissive culture within the district, the responses I received ranged from deflection to outright avoidance. For instance, instead of addressing these issues directly, I was provided with a canned response about “communication protocols” that ironically highlighted the very absence of such protocols when they were most needed. When I finally received a phone call from the superintendent, it was not to address the concerns meaningfully but to dismiss my points. When I respectfully pushed back and called out the lack of empathy and action, the conversation was abruptly ended, further illustrating the unwillingness to engage with real feedback.

3. Focus on Performative Gestures over Tangible Action

The district continues to release newsletters and emails promoting its commitment to inclusion and transparency, yet these claims ring hollow in practice. For example, a recent email about support for immigrant families seemed like a political and social gesture rather than a response to any pressing concerns raised by the community. As an immigrant myself, I found it baffling that the district would prioritize such performative messaging while ignoring actionable concerns about public safety and the dismissive treatment of parents by staff.

4. Culture of Avoidance

The underlying issue appears to be a leadership culture that deflects responsibility, avoids accountability, and focuses more on optics than substance. Parents are expected to accept these empty gestures as progress while genuine feedback is dismissed or ignored. Transparency should not be limited to carefully curated initiatives and newsletters—it must extend to meaningful engagement with parents, acknowledgment of mistakes, and a commitment to improvement.

My Message to the Community

As parents, we all want the same for our children: a safe environment and a quality education. We are not asking for favors—we are asking for accountability, responsiveness, and genuine leadership from those entrusted with running our schools. It is time for Barrington 220 to stop hiding behind a façade of inclusion and transparency and start addressing the real issues raised by the families they serve.

I hope that sharing my experiences will encourage the district to reevaluate its priorities and foster meaningful dialogue with parents. I also hope this resonates with others in the community who may feel similarly unheard.

Sincerely,
Sam Mehic

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