BRATTLEBORO-I have lived in small towns with open Town Meeting and in towns with Representative Town Meeting. In these two scenarios, due to life circumstance, my vote has not counted, and I have not been represented.
I am a well-informed voter who deserves the opportunity to vote through direct democracy: one person, one vote.
Open Town Meeting is exclusionary, with not all voters being able to attend due to restrictions or circumstance. Should this become the option, Brattleboro must be prepared to accommodate voters in one location. This will be a logistical nightmare.
The Brattleboro Representative Town Meeting puts the decision-making power in the hands of a dedicated group of citizens, dominated by a small non-representative group, often who have come to their respective positions as representatives with no contest. Additionally, positions for representatives often remain unfilled. This is not due to lack of interest but to circumstance; e.g., child care, disabilities, and/or work schedule, to name a few.
Australian ballot gives equal voice to all eligible citizens and offers the potential for higher voter participation. This method is the most inclusive option with the opportunity to vote early or via absentee ballot if restrictions/circumstance prevent voting during the election.
Additionally, an anonymous ballot removes the pressure of a vote in a public space.
Citizens of Brattleboro will continue to have many opportunities for deliberative debate and discussion throughout the year through our committee and Selectboard forums, offering either in-person or remote participation.
Australian ballot gives equal voice to all eligible citizens.
Maggie Lewis
Brattleboro
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