Bolingbrook, the hometown of Virtual Agora, mirrors the problems that the United States faces as a nation. The recent mayoral election was contentious and decided by a very narrow margin. Political tensions flare up in otherwise simple technical matters; for example, should the village stay with its current garbage pick-up system or should we have new garbage cans?

On the other hand, Bolingbrook is a spectacular success. Established recently, in 1965, Bolingbrook is the fastest growing community in Illinois among those incorporated around the same time. With affordable housing, good schools, shopping malls, low crime, and many jobs, it is a great place to live for people of modest means and has even made it into lists of best places to live in the country.

Bolingbrook residents have a lot to lose if political emotions guide changes rather than a cold analysis of facts.