By Marjorie Logman
Aurora
This time of the year we think of connections. We call or write old friends. We ponder holiday seasons past, often remembering those who have gone. We think of special ways we can acknowledge those with whom we have close ties.. It is not only sentimental, but nourishing to our psyche even in this year of the pandemic.
I haven’t tuned into Aurora City Council because I have been busy with moving which will be another commentary on Aurora’s being parts of four counties and what that does to your sense of connection. The mayor and aldermen sure do not exhibit any sense of friendliness or connection at City Council meetings, with a lot of rote rules. I especially do not like that when citizens speak, we do not acknowledge them, except with scowls which does not encourage civic participation. I give them some slack with the burden of the pandemic, but this is their usual demeanor. Even when meetings are in person, trying to speak to an alderman or the mayor is difficult. I was remembering how Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot stopped to speak to me and how Joe Biden listened to my story about my grandson’s class elections. Neither was condescending because I am in a wheelchair and they knew I had no agenda. I think that Aurora has an underlying rule with the elected does not relate to the populace.
During this recent meeting, several alderman had some good objections and questions about items on the agenda. I could sense their hesitation to object which is sad in a democracy. The mayor was short with them and scowled a lot. None of the items were urgent and I saw the need for further study to make a quality decision for Aurora, but there was a sense of it having to be done. Anything to do with elections coming up in 2021?
There is a lack of connection between the City Council and the populace. Instead of encouraging those who care about the City and its development and their concerns and input, if they do not like what is said that might enhance or correct an issue, they start with subtle name-calling. I have a list of at least six that have been directed my way. They do not understand that those who speak up and ask questions really care about Aurora.
I feel it has caused a great sense of discontent. I am amazed and how many have left the City. I am amazed that those who care have gone into the shadows because the stress of bringing correction is too much.
At last week’s meeting I would have asked a lot of questions as an alderman, or citizen, about employee benefits and economic development. Lincoln School is to be made into apartments. It is going to be a great location due to availability of transportation and walking distances? Seriously? Aurora transportation is close to awful. Anyone who has walked on Lake Street, Galena Boulevard, or New York Street are aware of the dangers. There are no nearby markets. The applause went for new restaurants and factories. America has now found that eating at home is great and healthy and where the factories went is where people are longing for shopping. More disconnect, but making the Council aware would add to my list of subtle name-calling. A presentation was made for a community center which is what Aurora wants, but received a lot of scowls. I do thank the alderman who spoke up at the meeting.
Connections are more than person to person, they are group to group. I feel that City Council, the Aurora Township, Downtown Aurora, and other major City groups are less than inclusive. Upsetting the status quo, or bringing fresh ideas is difficult. Inclusion is just not there. Aurora has lost its sense of friendliness. It permeates the air.
So, maybe this coming year, instead of plunging forward with questionable economic development and special interests and a government for the few, we can strive for community, cooperation, honesty, and a connection for all.