The true importance of public notices

Every so often, we find it worthwhile to note an important feature of your daily newspaper - the public notices that appear in the pages of the Nevada Appeal.

Public notices, also known as the "legals," published in the classified section of the newspaper, provide a fascinating snapshot of government activities in our community. An important premise upon which the principle of democracy is based is that information about government activities must be accessible in order for the electorate to make well-informed decisions. Public notices provide this sort of accessibility to residents who want to know more about local government.

Public notices serve as a conduit of information from the government to the public.

They enable residents to monitor the actions of their local governments, as well as to keep track of events occurring in the local court system. Residents are informed about events occurring throughout the community - from the sidewalk being built down the street, to a public meeting on the demolition of a historic building to homeowners in a residential area requesting a variance to operate a home business - all as a result of public notices in newspapers.

Public notices inform residents of government or government-related activities that may affect their everyday lives.

As is the case with property tax rolls appearing in today's paper, public notices are often used by governments to monitor their debtors and to eventually collect money owed to them. Notices also keep residents informed about how governments spend tax dollars and help ensure governments are making the most efficient use of resources by awarding contracts to the lowest bidder.

Furthermore, through public notices, residents are given the opportunity to make their voices heard in public hearings and meetings. Allowing the public to influence the governing bodies of our community is crucial to the functioning of a democratic society.

Through state regulations, local governments are required to publish public notices in a forum independent of government, such as newspapers, which remain the most viable vehicle to ensure accessibility by all segments of society. These laws are intended to make sure that residents affected by the proposed government action are given the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process.

The public has a right to know about the business of government, and public notices in the newspaper provide this important service.