Several Democratic candidates for York Township trustee are presenting ideas to better inform the citizens about the workings of township government.

Very little information about township services is available without filing a Freedom of Information Act request, Democrats contend. Requests require citizens who want to know what is happening to drive to Town Hall and pay a fee, they noted.  In addition, York Democrats say, the township does not always release requested information, noting several weeks ago, a request for the salaries and positions of township employees was rejected.

In addition, the Republican-led township has been facing severe financial issues, Democrats state, noting the general fund and the highway fund were each budgeted with a $200,000 deficit.  For the highway fund, Democrats note, expenditures are twice as large as all of the tax revenue collected. The Democratic candidates vow to make the township live within its means and stop wasteful spending.

Trustee candidate Diane Millikan says, “As a Harvard (Master of Business Administration) and former (chief financial officer), I believe I can bring important business expertise.

“I also believe in fiscal prudence and accountability from those given the honor to serve their constituents."

Trustee candidate Nayana Patel Kleppe backs Millikan up, saying she “will bring in a grass-roots representation from the people of York Township, putting utility and transparency before cronyism and secrecy.”

Several of the Democratic candidate propose putting key township documents like the budget and the annual audit on the Internet to allow citizens to keep track of government workings. In addition, they say they hope the additional scrutiny will force the Town Board to be wise trustees of the taxpayer’s money.

York Township Republican Chairman John Valle, who is also township supervisor, could not be reached for comment.

The township covers Elmhurst, Lombard, Villa Park, Oak Brook and Oakbrook Terrace, and sections of Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn, Hinsdale and Westmont