We are working on examining the records of council meetings in Prince George’s County and Montgomery County.  We will be using those records to compile a report that accurately reflects the voting record of each elected representative.

Our goal is to take information that is on the councils’ web sites and make that information into a readable chart.  We are not trying to portray any elected official as good or bad. The chart would sort votes by the issue addressed, using the summary in the Council’s public record.  In the “Action” column, we will include how the entire council voted, for example 8 aye, 1 no; how the representative voted; and any public remarks given by the representative.  In the “Evidence” column, we’ll provide links to other resources.  These links would include a link to the County Council web site and a link to any opposing opinion.

This type of report will afford constituents the opportunity to look at their own representative’s voting pattern, without the bias that comes from campaign literature.  It will also allow constituents the opportunity to zero in on the one topic that is of the most concern to them, personally.  So, if a person is interested in controlling the growth of high-density housing in their community, they can look at “Managing Development/Business”.

We are currently working on formatting this information.  A possible chart is below.  If you have comments or suggestions, we welcome your feedback.

How to Measure Service to Constituents: a possible format for reporting.