Six candidates are vying for two seats on the Wood River City Council in the upcoming April 6 municipal election.
Among those running is certified fraud examiner and certified public accountant Jeremy Plank, who says he is looking to make city government more accessible and accountable.
He said his platform - “A Transparent Wood River” - was inspired by the Ballotpedia.com "Municipal Transparency Checklist," which includes things cities should disclose online, such as budget, audits, meeting agendas, open records information, contracts, and lobbying information.
“As a CPA and certified fraud examiner, I know city governments can avoid financial problems by active citizens scrutinizing the city’s checkbook register and budget. I will proactively place Wood River’s finances online to help all of us ensure our city’s priorities reflect the will of its people,” Plank said.
According to Plank, 11 years ago, then county board member Chris Slusser (currently serving as county Treasurer) successfully called for placing the county check register online.
"Unfortunately, local governments have not followed that example, leaving citizens in the dark," Plank said.
“The Wood River city website lists the number of dogs and cats allowed in a person’s home, but doesn’t post information about our looming pension crisis. How does that make sense? As city councilman, I will prioritize transparency so our residents can see their government working for them.”
Plank also serves as chairman of the Madison County Flood Prevention District and initiated the “Save the Roundhouse” petition and ballot initiative, garnering 72% support from city voters. Jeremy and his son have made Wood River their home for over 15 years.
Other city council candidates on the ballot in the order in which they will appear are:
-Michael Anderson, incumbent, appointed in August to fill a vacancy created by the passing of council member Gale Ufert
-Mary Roberts
-Mark St. Peters
-Melissa Bell-Yates
-Scott Tweedy