A More Involved Process

Would Benefit Everyone

To the Editor:

Do they really want us to know?

This is a logical question to ask after last month being dedicated to the Freedom of Information Act.

Providing information to citizens as to how their local government works is an objective of the Freedom of Information Act. Residents who understand the process and decisions government representatives make create a more involved and informed process, which benefits everyone.

Reflecting on this important concept I wondered whether our governmental representatives want us to know why and how they make decisions.

I have observed constant criticism by our officials of citizens who have tried to be involved. These officials claim that citizens don’t know the facts, twist the facts, or simply make things up. One elected official even suggested that participating citizens should get a bag of coal at Christmas. Another official started a public input meeting by suggesting that an involved resident was guilty of borderline slander, thereby discouraging citizens from participating in the meeting, least they get attacked next. A Fairfield Hills Authority member criticized frequent writers to The Newtown Bee. Another selectman accused a resident’s father for being involved in community issues.

Elected officials have refused to reappoint commission members involved in questioning their decisions regarding public issues. Commissions and study groups have been packed with residents supporting preordained conclusions. Residents are accused of purely political motives, thereby dismissing their input and contributions. The charge for copies of public documents was doubled, thus discouraging citizens from learning “the facts.” Rather than listen to residents, officials have arrogantly challenged the residents to vote them out of office. Despite the outcry about a new town hall or the effective closing down of Queen Street these public officials push forward with their agenda.

Perhaps it’s time to open up our governmental process, not shutting citizens out. Here are some suggestions that can be implemented immediately.

1. Post all meeting agendas on the Newtown web page. Currently residents often have to go to town hall to see what will be discussed so they can decide to attend. No wonder attendance is often low. The agenda should be detailed so residents understand what topics are being discussed. The agenda should be posted 48 hours in advance so residents can decide to attend. Last minute additions, the night of the meeting, should be restricted so topics can’t be slipped on to the agenda.

2. All meeting minutes should be posted on the Newtown website. Draft minutes should be posted within 48 hours. Minutes should be detailed so citizens understand what was discussed and what the issues are. Minutes should remain on the website so citizens can research topics, not removed after some period of time making it more difficult to get the facts. All attachments should be posted.

Let’s open up government, not restrict information. Let the people have the facts easily, not make it hard for them to be involved. Let’s encourage involvement no matter how uncomfortable it might be for public officials.

Bruce Walczak

12 Glover Avenue, Newtown                                             May 14, 2007