Skaneateles Press - 4/2004
From
the mail bag (Skaneateles Press, 4/2004)
Spafford residents raise
concerns about communications from town board
To the editor:
Letters in the Press last week illustrated two very different town of Spafford.
We admired the mayor of Skaneateles for his informative letter regarding an upcoming public hearing. He explained the purpose, a plan, process and vision; presented challenges and approaches. He offered a copy of the proposed plan to any resident and explained how they might obtain a copy. And he said, “I look forward to hearing public input.” This man understands leadership and the democratic process.
By contrast, a Spafford resident’s letter expressed frustration that funding channeled through the town for a historical society restoration is stalled and information not forthcoming. A meeting has been called to “dispel rumors” whatever that means. How about clarifying who called the meeting and defining issues to be discussed?
The only information regarding the town meeting is found in this message hanging on the town bulletin board the meeting place is not stated:
“On April 7, 2004 at 7 p.m. there will be an informational meeting on the E.D.I. grant of $89,400.00 for
renovation of the Borodino Grange building. Any interested individuals, including Town Board members and Spafford Area Historical Society members, are welcome to attend. There is apparently some misleading information about the grant funding. We would like to take this opportunity to dispel all rumors.” - Town Clerk
We expressed frustration to a town board member who explained the town supervisor has apparently called the meeting. Who is the government in Spafford.... the one person calling this meeting? It wasn’t a town board action and certainly wasn’t desired by the historical society. The historical society is ready to move ahead, but several town officials have repeatedly challenged restoration plans. Let the historical society and their architects define the restoration!
We have heard repeated complaints from certain town officials that members of the historical society ran for office against them. There are 230 members of our historical society. If a few want to serve their community in public office, good for them! Why is that now a problem when funding for a community restoration project must come through the town? Why is an election even brought up in reference to a worthwhile community project?
Sadly, some are touting the April 7 meeting as a means to “get” the people who ran against the “old guard.” Should the police be ready and in the vicinity of the town hall again? What we need in Spafford are officials who can articulate issues, foster cooperation and communicate effectively. Perhaps they can use the mayor of Skaneateles’ letter as a template.
CAROL AND PETER PAYNTAR
Skaneateles Press - 4/2004