Dear Editor:

I believe Darien residents have come to expect positive values, high moral standards, and good old basic honesty from not only their elected officials but also those candidates who seek municipal office as well. I know I do.

Because of my beliefs, I, as a private citizen, have filed individual complaints with the Illinois State Board of Elections against Kevin P. Monaghan, candidate for mayor, JoAnne E Ragona, candidate for city clerk, Tina Beilke, candidate for Ward Two alderman, and Joerg Seifert, candidate for Ward Four alderman for violating the State of Illinois Campaign Disclosure Act.   

These candidates knowingly solicited and accepted campaign donations as “Team Darien – KPM” a/k/a “Team Darien” through fundraisers, websites and flyers but did not file as a political candidate committee as required by law. Their literature says a copy of their report is or will be available for purchase from the State Board of Election, but no such committee exists! There is no accountability for the campaign funds collected at their Feb. 3, 2011 fundraiser. 

The “Team” have acknowledged in writing receiving a D-5, the State of Illinois Board of Elections form that articulates their disclosure responsibilities.    Therefore, ignorance is no excuse, especially in the case of city clerk candidate Ragona who touts her municipal experience and aldermanic candidate Seifert who is an attorney.  Interesting side note, Seifert, Ragona and Monaghan have run for political office before so they are no strangers as to what is expected of them. 

 Their total disregard for the law should make you wonder and very concerned as to what they will do if elected to the offices they seek. Darien deserves better!   

Joanne Coleman