Most Ridiculous Item on Ballot in Winnebago

For real? Yes. In case you missed it, this item actually appeared on the ballot for some Winnebago voters.

The measure asked voters if they wanted to contribute for the pension and retirement fund of a few government officials. Really? I kid you not, this item was actually on the ballot and voted on by some Winnebago residents in Tuesday's Primary election.

According to the Rockford Register Star, the ballot initiative asked voters to

Contribute to the retirement and pension funds of Winnebago Park District director Michelle Cunningham, part-time program coordinator Jen Viel and their replacements.

If passed, the owner of a $200,000 home would pay close to an extra $96.00 a year in real estate taxes.

Cunningham told the Rockford Register Star

It’s a benefit that would retain future employees and myself

When the Rockford Register Star asked Viel to comment on the tax increase to fund her retirement, she declined. Hmmmm...I wonder why!

This kind of political nonsense makes me so mad. The last time I checked most of us contributed to our own retirement and didn't force our neighbors and other individuals to pay our way. Something stinks in Winnebago.

The Winnebago Park District Board is responsible for putting this measure on the ballot and also declined to make comment to the Rockford Register Star. Hmmmmmmmm.....

Fortunately, the voters of Winnebago got it right as the measure failed by an overwhelming majority.

Here was the final vote tally according to the Rockford Register Star:

YES VOTERS: 28%

NO VOTERS: 73%

So, I ask, can I get the a measure put on the November ballot to fund my retirement? Looks like it's an easy thing to do in Winnebago.

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