The Importance of Transparency in the El Cerrito Library Survey Data

In recent weeks, the push for transparency regarding the El Cerrito library surveys has gained momentum. A concerned citizen’s communication with former council member Greg Lyman highlights the ongoing struggle to obtain the survey data and reports that taxpayers funded.

The Issue at Hand

The surveys in question were conducted to gather community input on the proposed new library. However, despite the investment of public funds, the results have not been made available to the public. This lack of transparency is troubling, particularly for those who advocate for open government and accountability.

A Call for Action

The citizen’s letter to Greg Lyman emphasizes the need for cooperation between different stakeholders to secure the release of this vital information. Whether you support the Plaza library project or believe it is financially unfeasible for the city, the release of the survey data is crucial for informed decision-making. The community deserves to understand the feedback collected, which can significantly impact future planning and proposals.

Greg Lyman’s Response

Greg Lyman, a long-serving former council member and now a leader of the Plaza Station effort, responded to the concerned citizen’s plea. He acknowledged the conversation and the need for incorporating public input in future proposals. However, he also noted that the past surveys pertained to a funding measure that is no longer relevant. His focus is on developing a new proposal that includes more detailed preliminary designs and a clear timeline.

The Path Forward

To ensure the city acts in the best interest of its residents, it is imperative that both sides—those in favor of the new library and those concerned about its costs—unite in demanding the release of the survey data. By doing so, we can foster a more transparent and accountable government.

What You Can Do

Support this effort by writing to the current council members and urging them to vote for the release of the survey data and reports. This information belongs to the taxpayers, and its availability is a cornerstone of open government. Here is a link to contact the City Council: El Cerrito City Council.

Your voice matters. By advocating for transparency, we can ensure that the decisions regarding the new library are made with complete information and reflect the community’s true preferences and concerns.

Sample Email to Council Members:

Subject: Urgent Request for Release of Library Survey Data

Dear Council Members,

I am writing to express my concern regarding the withheld survey data and reports related to the new library proposal. As a taxpayer, I believe it is essential for this information to be made available to the public to ensure transparency and informed decision-making.

I urge you to push for the immediate release of the survey data and reports. This will allow both community members and council members to engage in meaningful discussions based on accurate and complete information.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

By coming together and demanding transparency, we can ensure that the future of our community’s library is decided through an open and informed process. Let’s work together to make our voices heard and uphold the principles of open government.