Here is my concern with the email string. I find it disturbing that our elected leaders feel that they are not responsible to the people. They have forgotten that we are the source of their power and their ability to govern. We have allowed them this authority and they have a duty to respond to us.
In much the same way as I would answer an email or a phone call from my boss, I would expect my representatives to respond in a similar manner. I fully expect responses to my emails, letters and phone calls. This is the minimum standard. They are, after all, "public servants." And we are the public.
As I stated in my email to Councilmember Walker, I do not expect the council to go along with all of my requests or suggestions but I do expect a response, even if it is a simple "no thank you."
I sincerely hope that those of you who contact the City Council in the future receive a better response because of this.
It seems that a little common decency would have been the best way to handle this. It makes me sad that your leaders choose to act this way.
ReplyDeleteJamie
I really feel that the council assumes that I will take every opportunity to embarrass them. That is simply not the case. I have had several email exchanges with the mayor that have been pleasant and I would hope to have this same type of exchange with all the councilmembers. All I ask for is an honest conversation.
ReplyDeleteAnd that's why I first came to this blog. Although I always find City Council meetings interesting, it's hard for most of us in Duvall to attend regularly. This is an informal place where Councilmembers can share their thoughts about things . . . give us a window into what is happening there.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, the tone has become one of frustration and judgement. Partially because of their "cold shoulder" and partially because we expected more. I think that they may distrust the readers of the blog as much as they do "Thomas" the moderator.
Let me reassure you, that we want to hear from you . . . and any positive input is appreciated. -Carolyn
Carolyn,
ReplyDeleteIt is true that there has been some frustration on my part. I feel that it is justified to a certian extent because we should expect more from our leaders. I believe that as public servants, they should serve.
In the future I will try to be less frustrated and judgemental.
Thanks for the reminder.
Thomas
Thank you, though I'm not just talking to you, Thomas. Let's keep the dialogue open.
ReplyDeleteI understand your frustration. In the past, you've referred to City Council members as "Leaders" "Representatives" and here as "Servants" - and then you point out why the labels don't fit. Maybe we should just call them elected officials, because then we don't really expect leadership, representation, or service.
Expectations set aside, I want to know what the issues are in council and how our elected officials are voting. Thanks for moving us one step closer to that. - Carolyn
I am glad I can help. That being said we should have high expectations of our elected officials. They should be the best among us not the ones we expect the least from.
ReplyDelete