Petersburg’s financial collapse has inflamed the citizenry. The city’s response to its budget crisis has not restored trust.
The ACLU of Virginia faults Petersburg officials for secrecy, a lack of openness. It cites special meetings called at the last minute and held not only at inconvenient times but in cramped quarters. The circumstances discourage public participation. Residents want to know. They have a right to know.
Petersburg citizens have shown up at meetings with tape over their mouths. This is not the image the city ought to project. And, as the ACLU notes, Petersburg is not alone. Other Virginia jurisdictions, including Grayson and Fairfax counties, have attempted to block the sunshine as well.
The Times-Dispatch applauds the hiring of the Robert Bobb Group to help Petersburg climb out of its hole. The manner of the organization’s ascension troubles us, nevertheless. The process was not as open as it ought to have been. Jurisdictions should pursue a degree of openness greater than the law stipulates.
Petersburg’s despair has implications for every citizen. Almost every function of government will be affected. Essential services have fallen under siege. Citizen cooperation remains key. Listen to the civic-minded people eager for engagement. Follow the ACLU’s advice. Let the sun shine.
