I've been saying this for years. Townships at one time were an important part of the government for rural areas and lesser developed cities.
However, there is no reason for any of the townships in this area to still be in existence. Granite City, within the current structure could easily handle the charity work done by the township. Meals on Wheels, the mini bus, senior dances, etc.... could be organized by someone in the mayors' office. Don't even bring up the tax assessor. Duplicate services for sure.
With the circus we've recently read about on here about the Nameoki group, it's quite obvious that's nothing more than a cash bonanza for someone.
I'm not sure what the procedure is for eliminating townships. I believe it has to be on a ballot and even if passed, the existing elected officials get to serve out their terms. If time permits, I will research this.
I would imagine the savings would be substantial. The mayor could assume the duties of the township supervisor. The city or village clerk (Pontoon) could take care of the township clerk paperwork and the other functions could be absorbed by existing staff or by hiring some of the township people into those positions.
WUS, you said Mr. Shipley had someone kicked off the ballot. Do you know who was to run against him?