Ultimately, I trust the wisdom of the group.
At this time in our nation’s ongoing experiment in democracy, we use majority rule voting to determine that wisdom. At the very start of our democracy, Ben Franklin said that we have a republic, if we can keep it. I believe process guards democracy. Attending to our process is a great way to work to keep our democracy. So I’m pleased with the public discussion around Greenfield’s ballot Question One. Such discussions nourish democracy. Thanks to all for participating!
Seems to me that the push to set a higher bar to start a referendum is a punitive reaction to the City Council’s final library decision being “checked” by the people.
Human error exists, we need “checks and balances.” In order to balance the power citizens grant representatives by voting them in, citizens “balance” the power granted by retaining the right to ‘check’ and find out if representatives are doing what the citizens want.
Candidates for School Committee and councilor-at-large can get on the ballot with 100 signatures, 50 for precinct councilors. A yes vote on No. 1 will result in needing about 900 signatures to get a referendum on the ballot. I think those ratios (between the number of signatures needed for candidates to get on the ballot, and for referendums to get on the ballot,) 9-1 and 18-1, are too high.
I’ll be voting No on No. 1. I’d be delighted talk it over with anyone.
One other important point, it pains me that any representative feels disrespected by the referendum process. I have such respect for those who step forward. My gratitude for that service is huge, and not diminished when I disagree with positions taken, even when I disagree strongly. I encourage servant leadership.
Gary Seldon
Greenfield