At our Selectmen’s meeting of June 23rd, I proposed that a citizen-at-large be placed on the School Building Committee. The suggestion was rejected by the Board. Why? On the surface, this might seem to some as an unnecessary impediment. But is it? Significant tax dollars are to be spent on this project and the work will presumably become part of the Russell Street School environment for many years. The Committee, which to some degree is mandated by State officials, consists of much expertise and experience; people who have a good grasp on what to do and when. They are employees and appointees of the Town who should pursue the best interests of the community. All true. However, the majority of the committee members are not taxpayers. How often do you tell a friend to go spend your money?
So what could one citizen do that would benefit the Committee? Ask questions, become more informed and add perspective for starters. A why question goes a long way to furthering discussions that lead to better understanding for even the more knowledgeable folks. Having an objective citizen who is not already serving in an official capacity or specific job function within the Town can provide additional assurance to regular citizens, a point of contact and additional dialog; all good for the ultimate outcome.
Finally, what harm would a citizen-at-large do?
At the meeting, I heard reasons such as “the State has to approve it”, “a window of opportunity could be lost”, “inefficiency”, “ignorance to all the intricacies”, “not necessary” and more. What I witnessed was inflexibility and a bit misleading at that. Seemingly, all just to resist the addition of one unaffiliated citizen/taxpayer. I saw a lot of energy being expended to resist a simple suggestion: Can we have a citizen–at-large on the Committee?
The resistance itself makes a case for why we should have one. I am certain that the School Building Committee will do a good job for the Town and I make no suggestion that something other than a good performance will be forthcoming. However, I go back to the fact that it is the money of the citizen/taxpayer we are expending on their behalf. An unaffiliated citizen, should one be so interested, can do no harm but can certainly make the whole process just that much more transparent, representative and credible.
