Leo Mainelli: Indisputable Truths. No spin.
Residents of Charlestown,
We are having a lot thrown at us this election season.
If we put all the positioning of each slate of candidates aside, one truth remains crystal clear: the changes suggested by the current Town Council to our Charlestown Charter will have significant, long-term negative impacts for residents due to the proposed increased control of the Town Council and changes to the Planning Commission.
Funny thing about “truth” in 2024.
Today, we live in a world where any position can be validated as “the truth” by simply turning to the source of information that agrees with an individual’s relative “truth”. Polar opposite opinions can each be substantiated, depending on which source of information is deemed a trustworthy authority.
Fortunately for those of us trying to determine the truth as it relates to our choices for Charlestown’s future, we have an indisputable track record of performance and behavior to consider by looking at the actions of the existing Town Council members (supported by the Charlestown Residents United (CRU) organization.)
Let’s look at some indisputable truths relating to the current Charlestown Town Council:
- Disregard for input from the Director of Planning and the Planning Commission recommendations.
- Proposed Town Charter changes that consolidate Town Council Power over citizen input.
- Development of a highly controversial Ninigret Park Master Plan that was not required by the Department of the Interior.
Indisputable truths. No spin.
Unfortunately, the issue of preservation of open government is being lost in this election while debate centers on two major concerns: Development of Ninigret Park (including eventual threats to Night/Dark skies) and Open Space. The real issue is: will any of the citizenry be truly heard as input is offered regarding our Town’s future by a Town Council that has already proven its tendency to supersede its authority?
Supporters of the current Town Council have stated “we have too much open space” and “sure, we like the idea of dark night skies, but this town has no future if we don’t bring more to it” (does that mean night skies become inconsequential?).
Are those really the sentiments of the majority of the citizenry?
Charlestown has been a bastion of character, beauty, and small town charm for the many decades that I have been blessed to know this community. It has not died yet. In fact, it is exactly why we are flooded with tourists every year.
As we move forward to perhaps: create a youth center, or best preserve and enjoy Ninigret Park, or ensure adequate and safe drinking water, etc…the most important factor is that we are all heard and are allowed to work together. Change in the current Town Council and support of Charlestown Citizens Alliance (CCA) is the change we need to strengthen and yet, preserve our community.
Leo Mainelli is the President of the Charlestown Citizens Alliance
November 4, 2024 @ 1:09 pm
Maybe the reason people love and choose to live in Charlestown is because of the wildlife, beauty and tranquility of our natural surroundings that the untouched open spaces provide. This does not make the town antiquated it makes it special and rich with what nature provides us. Once the open spaces is torn down and developed it will alter the Land, Water, Skys and the Serenity of Charlestown forever. It will be life changing for the residents of Charlestown.
If the town wants to do something with a lifetime impact why don’t they focus on our salt ponds which are being killed by growth and sludge from pesticides and lawn chemicals. I am sure if they investigate they will find many more contributors to the current problem.
Our land is a gift, lets not destroy it. Progress is not always the answer to a better life.
November 4, 2024 @ 11:06 am
Thanks from us to Leo. Sadly many politicians will distort half of the truth (choosing the half that is for or against an issue) in order to “win” … the concept of working together to develop solutions or compromises acceptable to both sides has gone.
November 4, 2024 @ 10:30 am
Leo,
As a former Town Counselor and resident of Charlestown I totally concur with your call for full and open government. A government that allows the will of all the people to be heard and shape public policy.
In order for a government to be effective and truly represent the will of the people it must not suppress or distort the public policy facts to serve their own desires. Charlestown needs a Town Council that will listen to what the citizens want and implement their wishes. It’s time for new leadership on the Town Council if you want an effective government.
On behalf of all of the current and former residents who Love Charlestown, thank you for your honesty, integrity and leadership of CCA.
November 4, 2024 @ 9:23 am
Thank you Leo for taking the time in your busy life for that.
I hope people will listen