Transparency; a buzz word that is not popular, but necessary

Transparency, at any level of government, is usually appreciated by those wanting to know the real story, and all the details.

Unfortunately, too many times, openness and honesty is often kicked aside or swept under the rug to be kept secret and is not viewed as important in some leadership circles.

Whether a local school board, a branch of local government, fire departments, police departments, even some churches, the line of communication and honesty is too often compromised.

I’ve seen it first hand, at numerous meetings and it’s well known to be a regular occurrence with certain entities. And they wonder why some taxpayers doubt leadership.

There are multiple definitions of transparency, including “the quality of being open to public scrutiny.” One example could be discovering the majority of funds mysteriously disappeared without any transparency regarding who the intended recipients are.

Transparent governance is important to local governments and the communities they serve because corruption threatens good governance, leads to the misallocation of resources, harms public and private sector development, and often distorts public perception.

A lack of transparency refers to situations where there is limited or inadequate disclosure or openness regarding information related to decision-making processes or actions taken by individuals or institutions.

A lack of transparency can erode trust and lead to suspicions of unethical or illegal activity.

In some cases, this can result in boycotts or other forms of protest against the business.

Transparency is often touted as the answer to reverse this erosion of public trust.

When citizens understand how their tax dollars are being spent and when it’s clear that decisions serve citizen interests, they’re more likely to trust their local leaders.

No matter the exact reasoning, many people and local groups/governmental bodies have chosen to remain non-transparent.

Transparency and accountability go hand in hand. Shining a light on the reality of an organization strengthens the foundation of honesty and trust that is essential to creating real progress.

A transparent workplace culture makes accountability necessary at all levels of an organization, leadership included.

According to Forbes website, “Transparency is the quality of being easily seen through, while transparency in a business or governance context refers to being open and honest.”

“As part of corporate governance best practices, this requires disclosure of all relevant information so that others can make informed decisions.”

A lack of transparency can erode trust and confidence in government, creating a sense of disconnect between the leaders and the citizens they are meant to serve. Ethics, on the other hand, serve as the moral compass guiding government officials in their decision-making processes.

True transparency is often hard to come by. Agencies have their required transparency reports, but in truth, much is covered up and the dissemination of actual information is still limited.

It doesn’t matter if it’s in Almont, Imlay City, Capac, you name the community, lack of transparency is everywhere. There are too many “side bars” and “whispers” in closed groups so as to not violate any Open Meetings Act rules.

Citizens and taxpayers deserve better. Stop hiding the truth. Be open and honest.

We deserve it, and expect it from our leaders. The alternative is bad for everyone.

Contact Dave at editor@pageone-inc.com