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Keep Democracy in Our Town

A letter to the editor is typically an opinion. My rebuttal to Eric Anderson Sr. (“No Longer Serves Our Community,” Sept. 26) isn’t saying that his opinion is wrong since that’s how he feels, but I want to point out factual information that questions his reasoning for a charter, along with a different opinion.

“Finding volunteers to fill vacancies on boards and commissions.” All are almost full! Of the 195 appointed and elected positions listed on the town website, there are only eight vacancies - four of which are the recently created Citizen’s Liaison Council. Ninety-six percent - a pretty good fill rate!

“Sustaining continuity in executive leadership.” A charter doesn’t provide continuity. There is continuity in our town government. Continuity in the Board of Selectmen, or lack thereof, will happen with or without a charter, as it happened 10 years ago and was resolved without a charter.

“Host of inefficiencies.” Where? I’d love examples where the current staff is inefficient.

“Recruiting professional staff.” Is he saying that current staff and volunteers aren’t professionals or qualified? Why would they be in those positions if they weren’t? Even so, this can be done without a charter.

“Retire what no longer serves our community.” In my opinion, the current form of government serves our community very well. I feel that the town officials - BOS, department heads, town hall employees, and volunteers are doing a great job.

In many areas, the proposed charter takes away our right to vote. Many parts of the charter that may be needed can be done without a charter. Democrats, Republicans, and unaffiliated are united against the charter. This is refreshing in today’s polarized political climate, that all parties can come together for our democracy.

Keep democracy in our town by voting against a charter for Chester.

Debra Chillock

Chester