1/27/11, 1:20 pm

Tags: #aldermen #anne rainey #Brothel-gate #Elizabeth Tisdahl #emails #get it together #gov watch #taylor barrett

The city of Evanston’s press release regarding the brothel law yesterday included the usual formal language one would expect from the government. But the responses Weinberg junior Taylor Barrett received after writing e-mails Tuesday to the mayor and city aldermen show a side of city government we don’t often see. Check out the sometimes-sympathetic, gender-confused, and downright absurd responses she received after the jump. City government can be a frightening place.

Taylor’s e-mail to officials

I am writing to you to respectfully express my unease with the imminent enforcement of the Evanston ‘brothel rule.’ I can only assume Evanston’s elected officials are opting to enforce this antiquated law to reduce noise pollution and limit off-campus partying. These are valid concerns, but the implementation of this outmoded law is certainly not the solution.

The elected Evanston officials should think of the negative repercussions that will result from this brash and angry decision. This law will directly hurt the morale of Northwestern students by forcing them to scatter throughout neighboring cities. Prospective applicants will rightfully question this arrangement and decide to toss their NU applications. The law will alienate the student body from the Evanston community itself. If they are forced to live farther away from campus, students will no longer be spending such copious amounts of money within the city limits. This law will harm Evanston, including the local shopkeepers and landlords.

Considering the damage that will surely result, how can Evanston possibly defend this destructive decision?

I am deeply disappointed and embarrassed on behalf of the city of Evanston.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Best,

Taylor Barrett

Mayor Tisdahl’s response:

Ald. Ann Rainey’s response:

Ald. Melissa Wynne’s response:

Ald. Coleen Burrus’s response:

Related posts:

1. Evanston officials creepin’ in your bedroom
2. Evanston officials pregame at the Schapiros’ place
3. The week of big announcements and Brothel-gate
4. The FAQ of Brothel-gate’s town hall meeting
5. Daily editor discusses the aftermath of coverage on the brothel law