Dear Fellow Residents,
Last night, the Town Council hosted a forum for residents to discuss their views of projects under consideration for Zimmerman Park: a pathway up to East West Highway and a dog exercise area. Our Town Hall was crowded, and residents spoke with keen interest and passion, both for and against placing a dog exercise area at that location.
Most of our fellow residents listened with respect and consideration for the speakers. However, we have become aware that some individuals in the audience made disparaging comments to or about some of those who spoke. Such behavior has no place in our Town. We know that our local democratic government works best when we hear all who wish to speak – perhaps most especially those who voice opinions different than our own. Any disparagement of anyone who takes the time and effort to have his or her voice heard diminishes all of us, for it discourages the openness of thought and expression from which we all benefit. And it is also, plain and simple, rude and unfair. Civility is our standard, and we are committed to upholding it.
We are a small community, small enough that we are all neighbors. Mutual respect and appreciation of another’s perspective are the hallmarks of being good neighbors. Let us practice what we so value.
Sincerely,
Barney Rush, Cecily Baskir, Joel Rubin, Wicca Davidson and Kirk Renaud