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Democracy under the rule of law evolved through the work of dedicated individuals for the good of all. To function well it requires a climate that allows trust to thrive. At the federal level the culture of trust has long been destroyed. It matters not what party governs; the instruments to build and maintain trust are not in place and politicians appear not to want them installed lest they cramp their style. At the provincial level, a court recently denied a lawsuit against Premier Dalton McGuinty for his health tax. An organization launched the lawsuit saying that the Premier had promised he would not increase taxes. The court ruled that citizens should not expect politicians to keep their promises. Is it any wonder people do not vote? What has this to do with Kincardine? Everything! For over a year I have advocated for transparency and accountability in our municipal government. I have written that openness would actually make council’s job easier and certainly less contentious. Members of council seem not to know what I am talking about or, worse, like federal politicians do not want transparent government with better checks and balances. Some members of council actually react in anger at the suggestion they might improve the way they govern. Children and adults alike cannot learn if they sulk or get angry when corrected. Learning is all about accepting mistakes or acknowledging that we did not know. With a new approach to governing we can all learn and move forward together. In the spirit of openness and honest communication, I ask Mayor Sutton three questions. Why does the Pavilion need to be moved? What are your plans for the Tiny Tots Park now that he wants to move the Pavilion? What are your plans for Reunion Park since the original plans were only shelved? A simple letter for next week’s papers would do wonders to clear the air. It should not be difficult since Glen has the information and plain speaking makes writing easier.
Adrienne Rich, an American writer wrote, “Lying is done with
words and also with silence.” Council should keep that in mind while
contemplating the trust that can be built with openness and fairness. |
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