Lawmaker Wants Elected Officials to Take Economics Classes

PEORIA - State lawmakers could be required to go back to class.

One politician wants elected officials to brush up on their economics.

City councilman Tim Riggenbach thinks knowing how to handle money can help any politician.

"Having the financial perspective is critical to get done what we want to do," he said.  

Good thing for him, He's a longtime financial adviser.  But even he may be forced to get a refresher in economics because of one state lawmaker's new idea.

"I've just noticed over my time in dealing with Springfield and dealing with local governments that a lot of the decisions that are being made just aren't well economically thought out," said state senator Dave Syverson (R-34).  

Syverson thinks all elected officials---state, city and county---should hit the books. He's pushing a bill that would require lawmakers to take an economics course every two years. Some taxpayers think it's not a bad idea.

"Fiscal planning is a very sophisticated thing," said Jacob Vest of Peoria. "But I think with economics classes and brushing up on our knowledge, I think our elected officials would be better served to help us by stewarding our tax dollars."

That's what Syverson thinks the 8-hour class will do.

Riggenbach disagrees and thinks maybe the state should learn from county and city government in the River City.

"We both find ways to balance our budget. We keep our spending in check. We don't go on these wild spending sprees. So to say that's going to be the solution to our problems, that's gotta' make you smile," he said.  

Supporters of the idea suggest community colleges would offer the classes. Syverson proposes that elected officials pay for it.