Sudbury Politics is not for the Faint of Heart

Sudbury is most intriguing lately. Entrenched power groups are being questioned, town decisions are being challenged, and citizen participation is growing every day. We see some results;  an increase to five selectmen, a new open forum bylaw approved, lively debate (at least in the press), and local political activity. There have been token responses to the demands for transparency and fiscal responsibility. But these modest changes come at a high price. Not many individuals with the integrity and commitment to work for a better town have confidence that other townspeople will support them, or the courage to take the abuse that comes from fighting city hall. They endure repeated character assassinations, attempts to damage their professional or business reputations, anonymous nasty comments in the Patch and Town Crier, distortion of facts, keying of cars, and assaults in public. It is a daunting process to overcome the cover-ups, secret deals, glaring conflicts of interest, and restrictions against citizen participation. For many, the retaliations are overwhelming. They have jobs to do, children to raise, health challenges to manage, and only so much energy. Many just wear out, become scared and discouraged, and retreat. I understand and respect their decision. But I hope that those with the fortitude to stay the course will attract others to do the same. The election on June 25th is a great opportunity. Please study and choose carefully. If we do not get the best people elected, we will have to wait until spring 2014 for the next chance. Please support those willing to take the abuse that comes with standing up to the establishment. I am speaking from personal experience. I live in Northwood.

Rita Bourne
Northwood Drive