16. Is there a better way?
Vermont citizens have a right to meaningful expression of their will on important state issues not adequately addressed by the legislature.
Some say Montpelier is where this should be done. The argument is that town meetings with only 20% voter participation aren’t representative of the community.
Is expecting citizens to go directly to Montpelier the answer?
Vermont does not provide citizens with access to a state referendum.
Electing representatives that will advance your views can't be the only answer. No candidate likely agrees with every viewpoint of a constituent. Rightfully, one cannot demand his representative to take his position on any given issue. But he should be able to raise his voice along with others in his community.
Letter writing isn't a solution. If representatives heard from 20% of their constituents on every important issue they would be overwhelmed.
Petitions are often not representative of the community and are frequently ignored.
Hearings in Montpelier are often limited and don't give every citizen a chance to speak. People who are unable to attend aren’t represented.
Local elections give citizens a quick, easy way to weigh in on important issues and are equally available to each citizen. They are clearly the best way to give a voice to the citizens.
Some say Montpelier is where this should be done. The argument is that town meetings with only 20% voter participation aren’t representative of the community.
Is expecting citizens to go directly to Montpelier the answer?
Vermont does not provide citizens with access to a state referendum.
Electing representatives that will advance your views can't be the only answer. No candidate likely agrees with every viewpoint of a constituent. Rightfully, one cannot demand his representative to take his position on any given issue. But he should be able to raise his voice along with others in his community.
Letter writing isn't a solution. If representatives heard from 20% of their constituents on every important issue they would be overwhelmed.
Petitions are often not representative of the community and are frequently ignored.
Hearings in Montpelier are often limited and don't give every citizen a chance to speak. People who are unable to attend aren’t represented.
Local elections give citizens a quick, easy way to weigh in on important issues and are equally available to each citizen. They are clearly the best way to give a voice to the citizens.
posted by Agnes Clift at 11:30 AM
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