BRATTLEBORO — We were two of the many folks directly involved with the movement to preserve the entrance to the Morningside Cemetery as green space. In the process of organizing neighbors around this issue, we became aware that many residents in this part of Brattleboro feel somewhat disconnected from the town's political process.
If you feel this way, now is a great time to become more involved.
At the Town Meeting budget informational evening last Thursday at the Academy School, we learned that our district, District 2, was nine members short in our representation.
Luckily, five residents have signed on as new members, but we are still four short. (We have learned that District 2 is perennially short members.)
Please consider attending this Thursday's school budget informational meeting (at Academy School at 6 p.m.) and signing on as a Town Meeting member.
It is easy to become a member. At the beginning of the informational meeting at Academy School, attend the “caucus” meeting of District 2. Let folks know that you are interested in serving, and you will be welcomed warmly.
Once you're a member, your duties are straightforward, and the time commitment is not huge.
Some residents have said that they don't want to become Town Meeting representatives because they don't like the meeting process. But this is the political process we have in Brattleboro.
Others have said that they don't “have the patience” for this kind of meeting. It's true that meetings can sometimes be long and tedious - each member has an opportunity to speak one's mind. But that's democracy in action. (It can also be interesting, rewarding, and fun.)
If you are interested in how the decisions are made in this town, don't “check out” and let others take the wheel. Please consider becoming a more active participant in our local government.
Also, if you have just a bit of extra time or wiggle room in your schedule, please consider that many residents do not have any and may even have to work on the Saturday of Town Meeting. If you choose to serve, your friends and neighbors will appreciate your contribution, and you'll feel good about what you're doing.
If you don't feel that you can commit to being a member this year, please take the time to read Olga Peters' piece (in this issue of The Commons) on the articles coming up for vote this year. If you see something of interest or concern to you, please contact a town meeting member from your district and let him or her know how you feel.