Thank you, to officials who put community first

I am a taxpayer in Des Plaines, and I have been extremely concerned for a very long time about the state of our political system and finances in Illinois.

It was very refreshing to have Mayor Matt Bogusz lead the city of Des Plaines. As a taxpayer, I am tired of politicians lining their pockets with taxpayers' money. Those who receive benefits should not be the ones to decide what those benefits should be. That is ludicrous.

Of course, you will vote to keep them and increase them. I applaud the honorable members - the mayor and aldermen Denise Rodd and Don Smith for not accepting the city-provided health and dental coverage.

Few have the morals and integrity to do the right thing if it means a monetary loss to themselves. I hope more of you will stand up for what is right for our community and not just for your own self-interest.

And I hope more residents will voice their opinion to the aldermen who want this benefit.

Marilyn Hallihan

Des Plaines