LaSalle Insider

If anyone read Thursday’s edition of the News tribune you no doubt saw the picture of our mayors, Harl and Grove, posing with two pieces of equipment and several city employees.  The story was on page A3 and the headline read”LaSalle,Peru cooperate”.  I have gotten more feedback on this story from constituents then any other since Jeff became Mayor.  First off let me tell everyone that the city of LaSalle and also Peru have NOT agreed to share equipment!  Maybe Jeff and Scott will lend each other personal items but outside of that there is not deal in place at this time.  Someone needs to tell our inexperienced mayors that just because you say something,  that doesn’t make it so. Both city councils have to have a written agreement covering this action if they decide its in the best interest of their city.  This conversation has never hit the council floor as of this date. There will be discussion before any equipment and personnel are exchanged between cities.  Mayor Grove should understand the need for this and it scares me he would take this step without council consent.  The city of LaSalle is not a dictatorship and almost everything needs council approval before it happens.  This is in the best interest of the taxpayers of both cities.  I spoke to a Peru alderman and he agreed that nothing has been approved by Peru’s council at this time.  Our two cities participate in sharing emergency equipment now but that is done under a MABAS agreement between several cities.  The document spells out every cities duties and liabilities. Apparently Jeff and Scott need a mayor handbook to study before they decide , on their own, what each city will do and at who’s cost.  I suggest those interested can come to our next meeting if you want to weigh in or hear more about this topic.  In the mean time don’t look for any equipment from either city leaving  town!