Civic Insights with David Billings
The word transparency is an interesting term we all use.
I’m not sure where to begin, so let’s start with the basics. Merriam-Webster defines transparency as ,” easily understood,” or “characterized by visibility or accessibility of information.”
That makes sense—because we all want access to information that is clear and easy to understand. But is that what people in Rockwall County truly experience?
Have you ever tried to wade through a massive development plan or a 350-page city or county budget? Did you understand it? If not, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly the problem. Transparency isn’t just about dumping information; it’s about making information clear, accessible, and understandable.
Citizens deserve a government that listens—but when data is so dense or confusing that people can’t even ask informed questions, real dialogue becomes impossible. True transparency requires clarity, engagement, commitment to integrity and faith-driven governance.
Transparency is one of the most overused words in government. It sounds good, looks good in campaign materials, and gives the impression of openness. But too often, it is treated as a throw-away team rather than a practice.
Too often, citizens’ questions go unanswered, leaving them unsure why decisions are made or where to find the facts. Inquiries to city council members or county commissioners are frequently ignored, brushed off with “visit my office,” or lost in mountains of technical data. Even when documents are available, the sheer volume can be overwhelming, and the details people truly need are often buried—or missing entirely from public websites, forcing residents to file open records requests. No one wants to be told “it’s in there somewhere” or made to feel inept for not being able to find it.
Over time, this kind of empty transparency doesn’t build trust—it erodes it, leaving citizens skeptical of whether government really wants them informed or simply wants to appear open. People don’t distrust government simply because they disagree with its decisions—they distrust it when information feels withheld or inaccessible.
While council meetings may still take place at City Hall at 6 p.m. on the first and third Mondays, those formal sessions should be the last resort for engagement. Late afternoons, evenings, or informal gatherings at coffee shops, community events, or local centers can provide more accessible spaces for honest conversation, meeting citizens where they are, rather than at the convenience of elected officials.
Some thoughts to consider.
Transparency is often confused with volume. More pages, charts, or appendices do not automatically make government open. Clarity matters more than sheer quantity. Citizens need information that is understandable, usable, and actionable.
Use the talent of the community. The City of Heath provides a strong example, engaging a broad range of citizens rather than limiting board appointments to friends, acquaintances, or those who share the personal philosophy of council members. Rockwall County cities could benefit from the same approach—tapping the knowledge, skills, and perspectives of citizens from varied backgrounds strengthens decisions, fosters trust, and demonstrates genuine engagement.
Loudest Voices. The loudest voices don’t always represent the majority, but that doesn’t mean they should be dismissed. Sometimes there’s a fair point hidden in frustration—issues worth exploring. Transparency is not just about broadcasting information; it requires active listening, understanding, and responding. Did officials really hear citizens out, or did they stop listening because it was the same person speaking for the 30th time?
Meaningful Dialog works both ways. While elected officials have a responsibility to listen carefully, citizens also help the process when they present their concerns respectfully and clearly. A message that is thoughtful, well-articulated, and delivered with civility along with constructive solutions is far more likely to be heard and taken seriously, even if officials initially disagree with the point being made.
So, what could meaningful transparency look like in Rockwall County?
Make information usable. Don’t drown people in data—provide clear, concise summaries alongside detailed information, even in an award-winning transparent budget.
Meet citizens where they are. Create informal, accessible opportunities for dialogue beyond formal meeting at different times of day and in locations where people live and gather, whether it’s a town hall, amenity center, local business, or local coffee shop.
Listen, even to critics. Disagreement doesn’t equal disrespect; sometimes opposition raises issues worth addressing. Likewise, citizens who present their concerns thoughtfully, clearly, and respectfully are far more likely to be heard and taken seriously.
Build trust through clarity and proactive engagement. Citizens shouldn’t have to play detective to understand their government or obtain public information.
As 2 Corinthians 8:21 reminds us: “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.” And Matthew 7:12 gives us the Golden Rule: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
On Sundays, we sit in church, listening to Scripture and committing to live out its teachings. Yet by Monday evening’s council or commissioner meeting, those lessons can feel forgotten. The call to honesty, fairness, and openness—central to our shared Christian faith—should not be left in the pews.
It should guide how we govern, how we listen, and how we treat one another in the public square. Rooted in that faith—and in the simple wisdom of the Golden Rule—we can build a Rockwall County government that isn’t just transparent on paper but trustworthy in practice.
Let’s walk in our Savior’s steps together as a community in Rockwall County
About the Author
David Billings, retired Mayor of Fate, has served the community for over a decade. A longtime business leader in the telecommunication industry, Navy veteran, and resident of Rockwall County, he brings both professional and civic experience to his writing on government, budgeting, and local economics. He is a graduate of Leadership Rockwall, North Texas Commission Leadership Program, active in several Rockwall County non-profits boards, and the American Legion.
He is passionate about civic involvement in local government, maintaining transparent governance and thoughtful strategic planning to preserve a bright future for the regions.
