Recently the News-Leader ran an editorial alleging that City Council had violated the Sunshine Law on November 15 when we held a meeting to discuss the then-pending McGowan application to remodel the Heer’s building.

The News-Leader was correct.  We blew it.

Greg Burris, City Manager, stepped forward to take the blame for erroneously believing that the discussion fell under the real estate exemption.  However, although I would have expected nothing less from Greg, the real blame lies with the Council.  Once we got into the discussion, not one of us questioned whether that discussion was appropriate or whether we should return to an open meeting for the conversation.

Some have suggested that Council members may have fallen into a example of “group think” where we all mentally headed down the same path at the same time—only to reach the same erroneous conclusion.  While I appreciate those charitable attempts to defend Council, folks don’t have to follow Council proceedings very long to come to the conclusion that the nine of us rarely think alike. 

No, we’re human.  We simply made a mistake.  

For the past two years, this particular Council has worked hard to make the municipal government process open and transparent and those efforts will continue.  For the past two years, the News-Leader has watched and questioned Council actions, especially when the Sunshine Law exemptions are invoked.  I hope they will continue their watch-dogging as well.

We all know that local government works best when it is open, transparent, and accessible to everyone.  That is why Springfield residents see Council members out in the community, in our stores, in our coffee shops, at neighborhood meetings, and at other events.  And that is why you’ll also generally see a reporter from the News-Leader or other media outlets close by.

So, as we approach the new year, there are enough mea culpas to go around on this one. However, I hope all of us on City Council will make a personal resolution not to repeat any mistakes from 2010—especially in terms of the Sunshine Law.