If only Plato had the internets
As it currently stands, governmental bodies must turn over the notices to be printed to an independent party – namely the daily or weekly newspaper – in a timely fashion. That assures an integrity and trustworthiness to the process. Taxpayers can trust that the information has not been delayed, altered or edited by a public official.
For that reason and others, it’s important to maintain this system.
I do partially agree, but I find it ironic that no where in the editorial did they mention the city paid aproximately $75,000 to the Argus for that service last year.
But this is a worthwhile investment. Newspapers have not changed the rates for publishing the notices in at least two years – longer in some cases – and they are much lower than traditional advertising rates.
But you still didn’t mention the figure – go figure. When the council voted this last year on the official paper, which they had little choice, Councilor Litz suggested the Shopping News instead. I partially agree with him on that suggestion. Why? First, it’s cheaper, it has a wider distribution, and it is FREE to the public (like the internet) the only downside is that it comes out once a week. I recommend the city looks into rates at the Shopping News, and continue printing the legal notices – but not in their newspaper.
BTW, I read this story online.