THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2008

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4 'Shutout' Of PH Mayor's Breakfast

Prospect Heights held its annual Mayor's Breakfast last Saturday and named former Ald. Darlene Ahlstedt "Citizen of the Year", but at least one resident wasn't happy with the way it was run.

As opposed to many similar events in surrounding towns, the event was only open to invited guests. Resident and former mayoral candidate Kurt Giehler said he tried to sign up for the event but was told he was not on the invitation list and couldn't come.

He said he was astounded he could not attend and questioned whether the meeting of officials violated the Open Meetings Act.

City Administrator Pam Arrigoni, however, said the breakfast has always been by invite because of "budget constraints".

The city picks up the tab for the invitees as it is a way to thank those who have contributed to the community.

She explained that the event is held to honor outstanding citizens, as well as the "Scholar's for Dollar's" scholarship winners.

"All we're doing is recognizing people," Arrigoni said. "It's a thank you."

The Open Meetings Act says that officials may not meet and discuss city issues without notifying the public therefore the breakfast does not break any rules as long as business is not discussed.