The Importance of Transparency: A Local Elected Official's Perspective
Ethics Complaint Update:
This is an ongoing, and will take until the spring to settle. The YouTube recording of the agenda item during the September OGEC Commission Meeting Executive Committee can be found here starting at 2:33:35 (about 5 minutes long). I found it interesting to note that one of the commissioners specifically stated it was not lost on them that this is shortly before an election on which I’m on the ballot.
Original Post:
As a local elected official, my primary duty is to serve and represent the interests of my community with integrity and honesty. I don’t mind coming under scrutiny from citizens, local press, malcontents or anything in-between. I’ve already had at least one, likely multiple, public records requests pertaining to myself and my business entities. And it seems like there may be more coming, although they certainly won’t uncover anything new; once I became a City Councilor, I took the proactive step of not entering into professional services contracts with the City.
However, these requests have provided an opportunity to reflect on the significance of transparency in public office. In the spirit of this, I am sharing the information obtained from my own public records request with the community, which I did through official channels and paid for myself. I have made those documents available on my website for anyone to review at kateschwarzler.com/transparency.
I am proud of the work I’m doing here at Indy Commons, Indy Idea Hub, and through my consulting company Creo Solutions. Over the next week or so, I will tell my story of my connection to Independence and why I decided to make a big mid-career shift. I’m beyond grateful to be doing the work I’m doing, although I freely admit it’s been the hardest thing I’ve ever done. In the seven years since I’ve opened Indy Commons, over 50 businesses have worked out of the space and the commissary kitchen has been used by 23 businesses for more than 4,070 hours since May of 2021. I think that’s a pretty good impact for our community, and one I’m actively working to expand.
Below are some additional thoughts on why I believe transparency is crucial and how I am committed to maintaining it.
Building Trust Through Openness
Transparency is the cornerstone of trust between elected officials and the community. When residents feel they have full access to the actions and decisions of their representatives, they are more likely to have confidence in their leadership. Trust is not built overnight; it is the result of consistent, open communication and accountability. By making information readily available, we demonstrate that we have nothing to hide and that we welcome scrutiny. The City of Independence makes all of their documents available online and has made a considerable effort over the past two years to make the documents more accessible and easier to read. No, there is no secret set of books or accounting, which would be quickly uncovered by outside audits.
Responding to Public Scrutiny
I have found the City to be willing to answer questions and clarify issues for their citizens through their website, social media, newsletter, in person, etc. In addition, any information or clarification I have asked for as a City Councilor has been made available to me and the entire Council. By the way, if you haven’t already signed up for the City’s newsletter, I highly recommend you do through their website.
By making this information accessible, I aim to provide clarity and reassurance that the decisions made in our local government, and myself, are above board and in the best interest of our community.
Transparency is not a one-time act; it is an ongoing commitment. As your elected official, I am dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of openness and accountability. Together, we can ensure that our local government remains a true reflection of the community it serves. I’m always happy to connect with people via email or in person – please reach out to me at kschwarzler@ci.independence.or.us if I can be on any assistance.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Kate
PSC.CreoSolutions.MakerSpace.2017
PSC.CreoSolutions.EntrepreneurshipDevel.Nov2019
PSC.IndyIdeaHub.BusnTechAsst.Sept2020
MOU.IndyIdeaHub.BusnGrowth.Oct2021