Elmwood Park Library Board Broke the Law, AG Says

ELMWOOD PARK, IL — The Elmwood Park Public Library Board has been found in violation of the Illinois Open Meetings Act (OMA) in two separate cases, according to official rulings from the Illinois Attorney General’s Public Access Bureau. The findings, issued at the end of 2023, confirm that the board failed to comply with transparency laws designed to ensure public access to government decision-making.

The violations, which include holding secret meetings and improperly appointing a trustee, have raised concerns about the board’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Secret Meetings in 2022

The first violation stems from 2022, when the library board held six private meetings to interview candidates for the executive director position. These meetings were conducted without public notice, agendas, or recorded minutes, effectively shutting out residents from observing or participating in the process.

While the board claimed the lack of transparency was an “accident,” the Attorney General’s office ruled that the actions were a clear violation of the Open Meetings Act. Although no penalties were issued, the board was ordered to comply with OMA requirements moving forward.

Improper Trustee Appointment in 2023

The second violation occurred on August 16, 2023, when the board appointed a new trustee without properly listing the action on the meeting agenda. Although the board later held a special meeting to re-vote on the appointment, the Attorney General ruled that the initial violation deprived the public of proper notice and warned the board to fully adhere to transparency laws in the future.

Official Findings, Not Opinions

These rulings are not based on opinions or accusations but are official determinations from the Illinois Attorney General’s office. The findings underscore the importance of transparency in local government and highlight the need for accountability among public officials.

Residents who wish to review the full correspondences from the Attorney General’s office can access the documents here:

• Secret Meetings Case
• Trustee Appointment Case

Calls for Accountability

Library board members are required to undergo training on OMA compliance, making these violations particularly troubling. Critics argue that the board’s actions reflect either a lack of understanding of transparency laws or a willful disregard for public accountability.

“These violations betray the trust of Elmwood Park residents and create unnecessary legal risks for the library,” said Jack Bower, local resident, library director of a nearby public library, and candidate for Elmwood Park Library Trustee in the upcoming April 1st municipal election. “We deserve a board that operates with integrity and transparency.”

What’s Next?

The rulings serve as a reminder of the importance of transparency in local government. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, attend public meetings, and hold their elected and appointed officials accountable.

For more information or to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, residents can contact the Elmwood Park Public Library or the Illinois Attorney General’s office.

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This article will be updated as more information becomes available.