By:  Diane Benjamin

Thanks for adding your Renner connection to your weekly diatribe, its refreshing to see some modicum of ethics reflected.

For those who no longer read the bird-cage liner, Vogel’s column this week is on the departure of Stearns from the Bloomington City Council and the interaction between her and Renner.  Steve claims “you had to be there” to see the tension as 4 citizens praised Stearns during public comment and the plaque award for her service after.  Video Steve – the meetings are all on video.  The meetings are no longer a secret revealed only by what your rag choses to report, often two totally different things.  So far 242 people have watched it, probably more just watched the public comment – the best part of the meetings by far.

The balance of the column lays blame on Stearns for long meetings and contentious rhetoric.  Steve missed Renner’s history of READING attacks on Stearns, cutting off her comments, and his refusal to discuss any cuts to the budget.  Two words Steve:

Standing Ovation

Did Rob Fazzini or Jennifer McDade receive a standing O when they left?  Has any other council member ever had citizens passionately support and defend them at meeting after meeting?  Stearns didn’t receive just a standing ovation – it was a long ovation.  Your paper, Renner, and Stockton have all tried to discredit Stearns and remove her from the Council.  You didn’t mention Alderman Sage and City Manager Hales didn’t stand.  It must have really aggravated them too.  Citizens showed their affection for Judy because they knew who had their back and always looked out for them.

You are correct that meetings will now be more predictable and probably shorter.  The potted plants are briefed over taxpayer paid meals, so the only questions will be coming from Alderman Lower.  Some scripted comments will be offered by others so they appear to be paying attention.  Bloomington will almost be able to jam through tax increases with no discussion – just like Normal.

Think Steve.  Most votes with Stearns on the Council were 7-2.  Citizens loved that Judy Stearns stood up for them.  You admitted Kevin Lower often joined her – hence the 2.  Future votes will be 8-1.

If citizens loved Stearns and therefore Lower for joining her, what to you think they think of the other 8?

Public comment is going to be delightful!  I can’t wait for Judy Stearns first appearance.  We really need a split screen broadcast of Judy with Renner checking his watch and hoping 3 minutes goes fast.  Panning the potted plants looking totally bored would be nice too.

I hope future retirees don’t stand around waiting for their standing ovation – it has to be earned.