District 84 House Republican leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and State Rep. Dave Wirsing (R-Sycamore) addressed the concerns of Sycamore citizens on Tuesday at the Sycamore Community Unit School District 427 Administrative Offices, 245 W. Exchange St.

They discussed the reorganization of the Illinois Republican minority caucus, which before, Cross and Wirsing said, was afraid to challenge the leadership of the more powerful state politicians.

For example, Wirsing said, whenever the caucus tried to speak up on an issue, it always faced strong opposition.

The introduction soon diverged into an open forum. Several locals questioned and criticized the two speakers’ policies.

One audience member remarked about the worsening public university budget cuts.

Wirsing replied by encouraging citizens to take an active role in government.

“It’s time for grassroots organizations to get involved. If you want to help, call or mail my office,” Wirsing said.

While the two politicians fielded questions, they remained critical of Gov. Rod Blagojevich and set some of the blame on him for the current budget crisis in higher education.

“This governor needs to grow up a little bit,” Wirsing said, referring to Blagojevich’s supposed refusal to cooperate with the Illinois state legislative branch.

Wirsing said the university budget cuts were not a s much of a problem as their detrimental effects on students.

“It puts a fine burden on students and proves that we need to be a congntive group,” Cross said.

A happy medium needs to be found with what to cut and what to keep, Wirsing said.

“Our concern is when it [education], starts to deteriorate,” Wirsing said.

Earlier in the day, Cross and Wirsing met with NIU officials at Barsema Hall for a brief tour and informal budget discussion.