These are challenging times for our town. Along with many other towns in the commonwealth, we share the problem of balancing tax rates while maintaining the quality of our schools, town services, and quality of life.
We also face the issue of the disposition of Devens, a challenge whose resolution will change the character of our town whatever the legal disposition. In short, this is a time when we need to be working together as citizens, volunteers, and elected officials.
At last week’s Board of Selectmen meeting there were instances that could be interpreted as personal bullying. Some might say it’s a matter of style; I say it’s a matter of decency.
“If you are deliberately trying to misunderstand me…” is personal. This was a comment directed at a citizen by a board member in a complicated exchange between that citizen, the board, the town administrator, and the town counsel. This comment, and others you can find recorded on local cable TV, were uncalled-for, irrespective of issues involved.
I hope that the selectmen appreciate that they play influential roles in the life of the town. These roles can be used to bring us together to face our challenges; likewise, these roles can create divisiveness. I hope the selectmen, especially the chairman, work harder to bring us together.
Joe Hutchinson
Westcott Road
