Government Transparency in Byron, MN

As of today, I've been a Councilman in Byron, MN for approximately 60 days. Up to this point, I've spent hundreds of hours learning, researching, and speaking with people who are involved with the decisions that run our great city.

Unfortunately, I have not received one call or email about any issue that I've been presented with thus far. I actually received more emails in the 60 days I ran for office than I've received since being in office. This seems wrong to me.

I'm sure that residents are talking about the decisions we're making each week. Each Tuesday, I run to my mailbox to grab the Byron Review and see how I was quoted at the previous meeting. It's a nerve racking experience for me as this is the only thing that residents "hear" each week.

I believe in government transparency and involvement by "the people". True, I may be the person who is representing you at city hall, but I should only be a reflection of those who put me into office. This means that I need to hear from you.

This blog will be a place where I can voice my opinion on matters and hopefully get feedback from you, "the people". I understand that you may not have time to attend each council meeting, but hopefully you have a couple hours each month to check this website and provide some feedback. If not, maybe forward this to someone who may find it interesting.

Each week, I'll be posting about an issue that you'll hopefully find important and relevant. The first post will come after tonight's council meeting (3/12/09).

Thanks!

Alan De Keyrel
Byron, MN Councilman