MY TURN: CLN decisions and finances being hidden from the public
Pat Raffee
The Community Library Network’s trustees are hiding board actions and some critical financial information from the public. Since Chair Rachelle Ottosen, Vice Chair Tom Hanley and Trustee Tim Plass directed staff to simplify board minutes, the uninformative phrase “discussion was held” has appeared repeatedly in official records. Following the resignations of library director Alexa Eccles and trustee Katie Blank, the board has held several executive sessions, with decisions announced as “will take the actions discussed.”
When Hanley moved to appoint Karen Campbell to the vacant trustee position, he claimed no need for questions since he had interviewed her by phone. But neither fellow trustees nor the public had insight into their phone discussions. Campbell leads a local group challenging the separation of church and state by injecting prayers specifically into governmental spaces. That seems relevant.
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
