Positions

The League of Women Voters of Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Area has adopted the following local positions:

Our Position on Nominating Systems and Procedures
LWV-LF/LB believes that nonpartisan nominating systems (caucuses) have been shown to be valid in the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Area but they must not preclude having independent candidates. Principles to which local government nominating systems (caucuses, parties, all candidates including independents) for elective offices are to be held accountable are these:

• Openness is the most essential requisite for nominating systems/candidates. It is the responsibility of the nominating systems/candidates to build and sustain the trust required for positive public perception.
  
• Ongoing communication between nominating systems/candidates and the electorate is a necessary adjunct to openness of operation.
  
• Selection of candidates should be based on qualifications for office.
  
• It is the responsibility of nominating systems/candidates to be aware of and adhere to all state, county, and local legal requirements.
  
• All campaigns undertaken by nominating systems/candidates are to be based on issues and qualifications, with campaign conduct based on civility and honesty.
  
• The role of municipal governments is to provide information, without bias, on procedures and requirements for candidacy to elected office.
  
• The role of the League is one of liaison in overseeing these principles, in communicating to the electorate information on sources to contact for candidacy, and in discussing potential improvements with nominating systems/candidates.
  

Our Position on Solid Waste
LWV-LF/LB supports federal and state policies to reduce the quantities of waste, to reclaim useful materials, and to safely restore the residue to the environment. The League encourages its municipalities to expand local programs, to combine efforts to solve waste problems regionally, and to report to residents on disposition of recycled items.

Our Position on Comprehensive Plan
LWV-LF/LB supports effective comprehensive plans for Lake Bluff and Lake Forest that encompass potential and existing land use in incorporated and surrounding unincorporated areas, as well as capital improvements, including the infrastructure.

Our Position on Conservation
LWV-LF/LB supports these measures to preserve the natural resources of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff Area: protection and preservation of the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff shoreline and bluff; preservation of ravines and other open areas; preservation, through restricted use, of the flood plain lands along the Skokie River; establishment of walkways and bicycle paths.

Our Position on Shared Services Agreements
LWV-LF/LB believes that

• Any Shared Services Arrangement between Lake Bluff Elementary School District 65, Lake Forest Elementary School District 67, and Lake Forest High School District 115 should be regularly reviewed and demonstrate cost savings, educational benefits, and work efficiencies.
  
• Public reports of any Shared Services Arrangement are important in order to inform the community of the scope and depth of the intergovernmental agreement.