Let the Sun Shine In!

Let the Sun Shine In - Board Reporting

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” or so the saying goes, and we would argue that sunshine on government operations is fundamental to our democracy. The public’s right to know must be protected because transparency and openness are the most effective ways to prevent corruption, wrongdoing, and bad government. One important way to make sure that decisions are made with public input and oversight is to have observers at government meetings.

Our federal government, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have passed “sunshine” laws, but the laws are only as effective as the public’s demand that they be followed. The people do this through their active participation and interest in their government.

Volunteers have stepped up and are making it their mission to attend local board meetings and report what they see and hear. This is particularly important when controversial items or issues of importance are being discussed or action taken. Their reports will be posted here, and we invite you to follow what is happening in your local community and answer the call to action when necessary.

You can be a board reporter too!

By becoming a Board Reporter, you will provide a valuable service to the community. Your monitoring will keep officials on notice that someone is watching what decisions are made and how they are made.

How do you become a board reporter?

• Contact us at [email protected] to find a nearby board to visit.
• A Board Reporter Form will be emailed to you, and you can find it here.
• Arrive at the meeting a few minutes early to get an agenda and observe the facilities.
• Fill out the Board Reporter Form. Attach additional sheets as needed.
• File your report within a few days by
  • emailing it to [email protected],
  • sending it via mail to DPMC, PO Box 1126, Crystal Lake, IL  60039,
  • or taking a picture of it and sending it to (224) 650-7958.

More information about being a Board Reporter is in our guide - download it here: