Letter: Your vote will matter

Posted 5/23/17

To the editor:

As a father, physician and resident of the Town of Barrington I am disappointed yet again with our annual drama game that pits the school committee against the committee on …

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Letter: Your vote will matter

Posted

To the editor:

As a father, physician and resident of the Town of Barrington I am disappointed yet again with our annual drama game that pits the school committee against the committee on appropriations. Like a bad movie sequel, this needs to stop. 

As an involved parent, I have been to all FTMs, many school committee meetings and some COA meetings over the past several years. I have recognized the tension that exists between the two committees. I was hoping that the school committee having three new members over the past two years would solve this issue, but it has not. 

I have attended or watched every school committee meeting for the last two years (as they are on livestream). This year’s budget required an increase to cover state mandates and increases in teachers’ salaries as per our contract. This past year we (taxpayers) also voted twice to support the bond to pay for the new middle school which is desperately needed. The votes were basically 2/1 ratio in favor of the new middle school. Unfortunately, the COA was stuck in its old drama, telling the school committee to find cuts in their level services budget. Four of the 5 members of the COA insisted more cuts were needed which lead to their vote to cut the full $1.2 million proposed increase needed to keep services the same. 

Watching the COA meeting last week I was amazed at the lack of respect given to the voters by some on the COA. They continued to criticize the voters about the overwhelming approval of the school bond, going as far as to say that the voters had no idea what they were doing. They also criticized people making amendments at FTM meetings in general, a vital part of our town’s democracy. 

After thinking about what I heard last Tuesday night, and have seen from the COA at the last several FTMs, I have decided to endorse and vote for Josh Berlinsky, Scott Douglas and Cynthia Rosengard. I agree with Scott Douglas that the COA needs to change and to adopt a code of conduct. All meetings should have public comments, they should all be livestreamed/ recorded so that those who cannot attend can still stay informed, and there is a permanent record. I think transparency is crucial. The COA needs to start its work in September and be part of the entire budget process rather than starting in January. It also needs to be part of subsequent teachers’ contract negotiations. The COA should work closely with the school committee and town manager so that our town runs smoothly.

Let’s follow Mr. Staples's rational and thoughtful lead to assure that Barrington works together for all of us by giving him a committee as dedicated as he is to work with. Please remember that the COA vote happens at the end of our FTM. So please make arrangements to stay till the end.  

Sincerely

Paul J. O’Brien Jr.

Barrington

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