Eyes and Ears on Your Government: The LWVE Observer Corp

by Cheryl Wollin

Observer Corps members shared their experiences–and enthusiasm–with other members of the League at a recent program.

We need and welcome new observers! Hoping to entice other members through increased awareness of the importance of monitoring how the city works, members of our LWVE Observer Corps met on September 10, 2026, at the Evanston Public Library to share their observing experiences. The enthusiasm of these volunteers was apparent!

Sue Brenner, a member of the Local Government Committee, stressed the need to become informed citizens regarding the significant decisions made by the City of Evanston. She then introduced five League members who have taken on the responsibility of attending (either in person or online) meetings of the City Council as well as some City boards, committees, and commissions. They described some impressions of groups they observe and noted that they share written reports with the Local Government Committee. Reports are also posted on the LWVE website. (For instructions on finding Observer Reports through our website, see the July 2026 Intercom article on the Document Library.)

The purpose of the Observer Corps is twofold: First, to inform our members of “watching the sausage being made,” as the saying goes about the process of legislation. And secondly, to hold elected and appointed committee members accountable for their actions. The League doesn’t have the ability to be present at all the many board and commission meetings, and yet we want transparency added to that accountability. The observers make that happen!

An example of Observer Corps impact: Observers felt during the discussions on Envision Evanston 2045 that some areas needed more clarification or attention. Then follow-up action was taken by the League both publicly and in specifically targeted responses to the City Manager, City Council Members, and others. Developments that fulfilled the League‘s position on increasing affordable housing garnered League support because an observer noted they were critical.

Hopefully, the evening encouraged some hardy members to step forward to enlarge our eyes and ears on our government! To learn more about joining the LWVE Observer Corps, email info@LWVE.org or call the LWVE Office at 847-859-7883.

Attendees at the Sept 10 presentation by the LWVE Observer Corps.

Return to INTERCOM SEPTEMBER 2026 page.

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Eyes and Ears on Your Government: The LWVE Observer Corp