I think the public would be well-served if the prize-winning Daily News would publish the main points of the proposed budgets each year for Mason County and its municipalities, and compare it with prior budgets. A midyear update with neutral analysis would also be useful. The people could then help their elected and appointed officials with tough decisions and hold them more accountable. It may also help them decide whether their taxes are too high or too low.

great idea xlfd, but governments at all levels arn't interested in an informed public. so even award winning news media, tend to side with the government and make available only so much information. if we took the time to become truely informed on how our elected officials perform there duities, i think there would be far less re-elections, at every level. JMHO

"...award winning news media tend to side with the government and make available only so much information." Very perceptive Tom, and applicable not only on the local newsprints. Award-winning Presidents and other public officials have the same distinction.