A warrant article for replacing town meeting with SB 2 will be voted on Saturday, March 14, at Deering’s annual town meeting. Proponents insist that this form is more democratic and we’ll get the best of both worlds – a deliberative meeting to discuss issues and then a vote for everyone. Unfortunately, the facts don’t bear this out. Most recently, our school board held its deliberative session. Only eight Deering residents attended, or 0.07%, to discuss a budget in excess of $20 million. The school portion of Deering’s tax base is almost 50%.
Town meeting allows the budget and warrant articles to be discussed at length. There is no discussion or explanation in the ballot box. It’s unrealistic to think people will attend a deliberative meeting for the town budget when so few people attend a similar hearing regarding our schools. Our children are required to perform community service. Shouldn’t we, as adults, set a good example and do our civic duty?
Deering is a quintessential New England town. Town meeting is more than just voting for our budget. It’s a social gathering to meet with family, neighbors and meet new residents. Many complain that Deering needs more activities for its citizens, and yet it’s proposed that we eliminate one of our most endearing events.
I don’t want Deering to become another town that adopts SB 2 only to regret it later like so many other towns have. Vote no on SB 2!
BARBARA CAVANAUGH
Deering