Democracy in Action
I attended the H/PT School Board meeting last evening and learned, among other things, that:
1) Copper Country citizens care about their schools and are willing to come out on a very cold night to participate in their local government. Many people spoke up, and everyone listened. Opinions were varied, but all were expressed respectfully.
2) Taxes are unpopular. This isn’t news, but it’s important to understand that people feel the burden of taxes differently. In every system of taxation (sales, income, property) fairness and transparency are essential to winning public trust and support. Again, we learn a lot when we speak up and listen to each other. I wish I had had the courage to say I consider it a privilege to pay my taxes, which are necessary to pay for services I value. I am grateful for all the civil servants whose jobs involve our taxation systems.
3) Seven people put their hats in the ring to fill a vacancy on the board. Seven! This is what democracy looks like!
After the meeting, I spoke with Garrett Neese, who, with notepad in hand, was sitting on the hallway floor, writing up his report for this paper. He told me that he has accepted a new job and will be leaving the DMG after 21 years here. Thank you, Garrett, for your exemplary service to our community. I am sorry we couldn’t hold onto you, and I wish you the very best in your new post.