A More Consistent Practice of Open Government

Dear Editor

The Copake Chronicle has frequently urged more consistent practice of open government. Because town law focuses so narrowly on forbidding the assembly of a quorum of any committee or board outside of called and advertised public meeting, a very important benefit of open government is often overlooked. I suggest shifting focus from what should not be done to what should be done.

By talking to each other about pending cases or issues, pairs of committee and board members can clarify both their own tentative positions and areas in which they need to increase their information and understanding. That process, which is characteristic of conscientious members, can benefit the town by leading to wiser decisions. The manner in which ideas are generated, however, is less important than what becomes of them after they are formed. Critically important ideas may well originate with a minority or bare quorum of a board or committee; deliberation by all members, however, is typically the means by which good ideas are brought to full fruition. It is that process of full and open discussion that should always take place in public meeting, not in private collaboration. Having the opportunity to hear that discussion, Copake citizens can understand the basis of board or committee decisions and recommendations, and so provide support for governmental action.

We should bear in mind John Stuart Mill’s illustration of the value of having one’s ideas questioned or challenged. The challenger may present a valid and valuable idea that I can incorporate in my improved proposal. If I find no such source of improvement, I shall, in the course of defending my idea, have gained appreciation of its merits.

All members of Copake boards and committees have a local constituency. When any one of them is ignored or shunted aside, full democratic representation is denied to a portion of the Copake populace. To be as productive as it ought to be, a board or committee meeting should be a learning experience for all present, whether members or audience. Respect for each, including opponents, can only benefit all.

Respectfully submitted,

Mac Simms