A Civics Lesson

To the Editor:

The residents of Newtown who attended the Board of Education meeting on May 19 enjoyed a true lesson in civics. Those in attendance experienced the ability to make a difference in local government. While the transportation issue has been well chronicled for weeks, the citizens of this town took the time to let their voices be heard. And it worked. While the board expressed their desire to end this divisive matter in the town one thing was clear — the discord existed primarily on the board. The residents were vocal in their support of MTM and everyone who spoke supported the current school bus system in Newtown. The owners and drivers of the buses, people who work on them, and anyone involved with the school transportation system should be commended for the universal praise.

In the end it took the courage from one board member, David Gaines, to change his vote — and he will no doubt be remembered at election time.

An equally important lesson in civics was provided by board member David Nanavaty, who surprised the audience, bus owners and operators and — inexplicably — the members of his own board with a completely off-topic proposal. An individual’s own personal agenda should not interfere with his role as an elected official who has a responsibility to represent the wishes of his constituency. Perhaps the voters will remember this lesson in civics also at the next election.

Mark Mockovak

3 Nelson Lane, Newtown                                                  May 19, 2009