To the editor:

One hopes, for his outlook and blood pressure, that Mr. Katz understands that all elected persons and groups in a democracy will face opposition among a portion of the public.  And, by the way, a significant driver of a thriving democracy is the loyal opposition. Chest beaters and officials of mean spirit had best keep this in mind.

Sorry to break this to the TTAers on the Tiverton Town Council: You were not elected to shake things up.  You were elected by a majority of the very small percentage of registered voters in the last election. That electoral majority may favor outside money in local elections. They may favor shutting the high school and turning our new library into city offices. They may feel so independent and self-satisfied that normal town services should give way to de minimis taxes. Lest the TTAers fly too close to the sun, they need to be aware that the vast majority of Tiverton residents do not share these policies.  

A wise person once wrote that greatness is overcoming natural inclinations.  This powerful idea means, among other things, that just because something is technically legal, one need not take that path.  The town solicitor controversy is a case in point. Power hoarded is tyranny. Power shared is democracy. Well on your way?

Maybe well on your way out.

Will Newman

Tiverton