In a time of transition for local city government, experience can be a valuable asset for a candidate. The residents of DeKalb are fortunate to have a candidate for city clerk with 18 years of experience.

That’s how long Liz Peerboom has worked for the city, beginning as an account clerk in the finance department and also working as a secretary for Public Works. Peerboom also has trained under current city clerk Donna Johnson for the last 15 months as a deputy, performing essentially the same job as the one for which we endorse her.

Though the city clerk does not shape policy decisions, the position acts as a record-keeper of city council meetings. It also issues various licenses and maintains updates to the city’s municipal code.

Considering that the make-up of the city council could change Tuesday, with numerous aldermanic positions and the mayoral position up for reelection, Peerboom seems best suited to be able to start the job with a seamless transition.

Her initiatives for the job seem appropriate for our day and include a desire to use technology more effectively to share information among residents and council members.

Peerboom is mindful of the constraints of a budget and a current city-wide hiring freeze and seems determined to use the office’s available resources effectively.

Peerboom also said she wants to call attention to the office’s green initiatives, including using less paper and sharing more information online and via e-mail.

Finally, Peerboom seems committed to enhancing the transparency of city government by making sure all non-confidential public information is made available to those who request it in a timely manner.

We’re confident Peerboom will perform the job of city clerk with efficiency and candor.

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