To the editor:

 I support the animal registry and oppose any efforts to reduce the control of Westport’s  Board of Health. I attended the special town meeting on Feb. 11, and remain concerned about the contentious us-against-them sentiment and the campaign to “take back our town.” 

Who does the town need to be taken back from?  From me and others who support farming but simply want to ensure that our animals are treated well?  Who were horrified by what happened on 177 and want to do whatever we can to ensure that such nightmarish abuse and neglect never happens again?  Who want the world to look at our town and see that we care, and are protecting the health and well-being of our animals?  

It is sad that this issue has devolved into a broader campaign to reduce the power of our town government. With food-borne contamination and communicable diseases seemingly on the rise, is this really the time to remove BOH oversight of animal sites?  

Let’s dial back the overblown rhetoric and misinformation. Attorney General Maura Healey will now consider this matter, and I urge Westporters to contact her office to oppose the bylaw amendment.  Please send email to ago@state.ma.us or call the New Bedford office at 508 990-9700.

Terry Somerson

Westport