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Dear Fellow Sudbury Residents
I have been a resident of Sudbury for 40 years and have attended most town meetings. I’ve never experienced such disrespect and disregard for the process as I did at the Special Town Meeting on May 20. Most importantly, I find it incredibly hypocritical that the call for the question on Article 3 was made and voted (twice!) before there was any opportunity for debate on the actual question. (Debate was only on a few of the proposed amendments.) This came from proponents who touted their position that decisions should be made “by the voters.” I guess they meant “by the voters” who already agreed with them. I came to town meeting without a full understanding of the underlying issues that precipitated the initiative and was hoping to learn more. I didn’t get that opportunity. Yes, town meeting can be cumbersome and yes, it was getting late. But that isn’t an excuse to steamroll the process to get your way.
I was also appalled by the behavior of some attendees who felt that it was appropriate to shout and “correct” the moderator, particularly after having been warned multiple times. We’re all familiar with the concept of civil discourse. Unfortunately, it wasn’t evident on Wednesday night. Regardless of the outcome of any specific article, respect for fellow residents should be the lowest common denominator. Ultimately, I think we all share the goal of a best possible Sudbury, even if we might differ on the specifics.
We can be better.
Sincerely,
Jamie Gossels