Make open government a daily priority

Throughout the week, Gazette staffers have celebrated Sunshine Week - a too short annual reminder that the public's work should be done in the public's view.

We've offered kudos to government bodies that have kept transparency a priority and heard from local and state leaders on previous milestones and remaining challenges.

For the journalists working in our offices, access to public officials and documents is a job requirement, something that must happen on a daily basis. Efforts by our staff and countless other reporters in Iowa over the years have resulted in open meetings, salary transparency, disclosures of conflicts of interest and a wealth of other government information.

The Freedom of Information Act, however, is not reserved solely for journalists. The law not only makes it possible for residents to know how tax money is being spent, but throws open the doors of meetings where such decisions take place. Distribution of data routinely collected by government agencies can spur scientific research, or spark economic development.

Having an open government means anyone can request safety information on local roads and bridges, or view a community's plan for future development.

Government bodies - city councils, school boards, county supervisors, state legislatures and more - serve constituents best when debate and action takes place in the public square. While not all constituents will agree with every word or action, there is better hope for understanding when negotiations are transparent.

And, in all fairness, since taxpayer dollars provide the operating expenses of government, the public should have access to what is planned, collected and produced on its dime.

What's become clear is that one week a year isn't enough.

The nation that has prided itself on being of, by and for the people is now too often focused on the next election, on hiding donors, on keeping secrets. Transparency deserves more than election year stump speeches or 30-second advertising spots.

All Iowans, whether attending a meeting or elected to office, should pledge to practice the principles of Sunshine Week all year long to foster and nurture an informed, engaged society.

The onus is on government officials to make a case why something should be kept from the public, not on the public to explain why it should be available.

' Comments: (319) 398-8469; editorial@thegazette.com