County Council slows down on ethics reform as Stenger reports to prison

This is how it happens.

First comes the government scandal.

An official, or group of officials, perhaps elected, sometimes not, get caught with their hands in the cookie jar, allowing private businesses seeking government contracts to influence their official decisions.

Then comes the investigation, maybe even an indictment or two. The unethical officials resign or are drummed out of office.

Then comes the cleanup. New government officials promise a new way of business.

But wait, say the business leaders. Beware the unintended consequences. Reform is hard. Slow down.

Read more: https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/columns/tony-messenger/messenger-county-council-slows-down-on-ethics-reform-as-stenger/article_b3a50cb0-d924-5530-8b79-8a85b4e83fd6.html