This is a football term used for a play that is made when the game is about over and there are almost no options left for a win. The quarterback passes the ball as far as he can trying to get to a receiver that has a chance to get a touchdown and save the day. It seldom succeeds.
What would you do if you had spent months trying to get enough signatures to get an issue on a ballot only to find when you had the signatures other requirements had not been met? You would have nothing to lose, so try a “Hail Mary” and hope the judge will accept the petitions without the requirements being met. Do I blame them? Not really, there is nothing for them to lose at this point.
Most of you know the more government group has decided to file their petitions with the clerk of the circuit court asking for the question of Candlewick incorporation to be put on a ballot. The law indicates they must have the permission of all three surrounding villages but they must not care about that. Not one of the three villages have given permission. Rather odd to tell the villages their opinion doesn't matter if it doesn't match their pro-government desires. We were all told in the “town hall” meeting months ago Candlewick could incorporate whether the surrounding villages agree to let us or not. We'll see. Law is law.
Even the petitions themselves with all the scratched out names indicate they must have the agreement of all three villages to put this on the ballot. Does this action invalidate the signatures? I don’t know but an interesting question, isn’t it. This is a quote from one of their petitions….
(2) This Territory lies within 1 1/2 miles of the boundary line of the following existing municipalities: the Villages of Caledonia, Poplar Grove and Timberlane, IL and their consent to this incorporation will first be obtained before the petition is filed with the Circuit Court as a condition of such filing
I certainly can not speak for the villages but I will tell you this, if it were me this would be the last straw, indicating what could be expected from those who hope to run a new city. Legality it seems would take a back seat to desires, whether it be annexation of properties or general dealings with the neighboring villages. It is a shocking and ill advised action.
All Candlewick residents should keep this in mind along with the bashing of our community and incomplete presentation of information in the pursuit of their goals. What a shame. Rest assured, we will keep you apprised of this situation as it develops and we will act as necessary to protect your rights under the law.
Ken Dillenburg