Transparency Isn’t Optional — It’s the Foundation of Trust in City Government

By Kimberly Combs

regional manager, Better Newspapers Inc.

In every corner of Missouri and across the nation, city governments make decisions that directly impact our daily lives — from water rates to public safety policies. These decisions shape the quality of our communities, yet too often they are made behind closed doors, at inconvenient hours, or with minimal public input. That must change.

In recent days, the newspaper has heard that they are mad at the mayor. That is not the case. The newspaper staff has no anger toward any city official or employee. They have one expectation—that city government operates according to guidelines set forth in the state statues and for the city to operate transparently.

Transparency in city government is not a lofty ideal. It is a legal requirement under Missouri’s Sunshine Law, and more importantly, it is a moral obligation to the people. When meetings are held at times the public can’t attend, when agendas are vague, or when decisions are made in closed sessions without clear justification, citizens are shut out of the democratic process.

The cost of secrecy is public trust. Residents begin to question whether their leaders are acting in the community’s best interest — or their own. Transparency, on the other hand, builds accountability. It invites scrutiny, yes, but it also invites participation, creativity, and collaboration from the very people government is meant to serve.

Operating transparently doesn’t just mean following the bare minimum of legal requirements. It means actively working to make information accessible. Posting meeting notices well in advance. Holding hearings at times when working people can attend. Clearly explaining decisions — not just legally defending them. Making records easily available without delay or obstruction.

City officials should welcome these responsibilities. They are stewards of the public trust, and openness is the currency of that trust.

Missouri’s Sunshine Law gives citizens the right to know, but it is up to each city to live out that spirit of openness. Our communities deserve more than just compliance. They deserve clarity. They deserve honesty. And they deserve to be heard.

Let the light in. Democracy works best in full view of the people it serves.

Local governments make decisions about city streets, emergency services, water rates, fire protection and law enforcement. If people don’t trust their local leaders, they’re less likely to support necessary changes — or comply with laws and policies.

When citizens trust their local government, they’re more likely to:

• Attend public meetings

• Vote in local elections

• Volunteer for community projects

• Serve on boards and commissions

Without trust, engagement drops — and decisions are made by a few, not the many.

If people believe their government is hiding information or making deals behind closed doors, public skepticism grows, even if the actions are legal. Trust creates the space for open communication, feedback, and shared problem-solving.

In times of crisis — like a natural disaster, economic downturn, or public health emergency — trust in local leadership is essential. People are more likely to follow guidance, cooperate, and stay calm when they believe their leaders are honest and competent.

Without public trust, there is little pressure on officials to explain their decisions or fix mistakes. But when residents are engaged and trust is mutual, government becomes more responsive, ethical, and fair.

Trust is not just a feel-good concept — it’s a practical necessity. It leads to better policies, stronger communities, and a more resilient democracy. Without trust in local government, people disengage, misinformation spreads, and progress stalls.

The public should attend city council meetings because local government decisions affect their daily lives, and being present ensures those decisions are made with public input, transparency, and accountability.

City councils vote on things like:

• Utility rates

•  Local ordinances

• Street maintenance

 Police and fire services

These choices shape your neighborhood, your wallet, and your quality of life. Attending meetings gives you a voice before decisions are final.