Having recently moved to Williamstown and having a lifelong interest in government and politics, I’ve tried to engage in discussions around local issues.
There was a fine meeting last month with several elected officials that was hosted by Wild Soul River, whose owners deserve credit for the time and talent they dedicate to the greater good.
I was disappointed, though, by a meeting this past weekend with the comprehensive plan committee.
The meeting was advertised as an opportunity for feedback, but it seemed from my perspective at least that it was anything but that.
It may be a matter of definition. Perhaps my understanding of the difference between a forum and a debate, a discussion and an argument, is flawed.
For example, I asked what people mean by the “town center”. Seems to me there are two town centers possibly located in the vicinity of Field* and Bloedel Parks. That led to a response that Spring Street is the town center. Period. End of discussion.
A historic town identifies a commercial area as its center? That may be appropriate for a city, but as a symbol or representation or public image for a rural community? Seems to me this is worthy of consideration.
The meeting drifted into areas that weren’t on the agenda, which is fine, but again there seemed to be little interest in hearing new points of view.
As a way to lessen the property tax burden, I suggested giving residents a chance to volunteer in exchange for an abatement on their taxes. A member of the committee nixed that thought, claiming volunteerism undermines the “dignity of work” for pay.
I wonder what volunteers, considered by some the “backbone” of nonprofit organizations, would think about that.
In my last town, comprehensive plan meetings were information gathering sessions conducted by trained moderators, both paid and (heavens) unpaid. Members of the Planning Board were cautioned to allow open discussion, leaving their comments to the end.
In contrast, this weekend’s session in Williamstown turned into a Q and A or perhaps more accurately a defense of the status quo.
I hope the comprehensive plan meetings that led up to this one allowed more actual feedback and that the final result will reflect a consensus of the citizenry and not just the opinions of a very few.
*”The center of the town was the intersection of South Street and North Street at the east end of what is now called Field Park. Though not the geographic center, it was the center of the original lots and the location of the original meetinghouse/town hall.”
