For the past ten years, The Michigan Press Association has given the Rep. Peter Petallia Memorial Sunshine Award to public servants that strive to promote and protect transparency in government. The award is named after former State Representative Peter Pettallia of Presque Isle who embodied all good things in governing especially support of the citizens in his community and an understanding of the importance of keeping them informed through a transparent government.
This year, we are sad to report that there are no Sunshine Awards being given. Michigan continues to linger in the basement statistically on matters of openness when compared to other states. Despite this fact truly little has been done to shine the sun on government activity in our state.
Government transparency is essential to maintaining the public’s trust and ensuring accountability. Transparency allows citizens to understand how their government operates, how their tax dollars are being spent, and how decisions are made on their behalf.
