Trend toward secrecy harmful to democracy

Published 11:27 am Monday, January 15, 2018

Dear Editor,

Have you noticed that the word “secret” has been appearing more and more in relation to state and local government proceedings lately?

That and “closed door session” have begun to be the norm. Discussions of pension reform, official misconduct, heath insurance, taxes and the environment — all vital issues for the citizenry — have been removed from public view over the past year.  

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Not only that, but they have been hidden from minority party legislators through partisan maneuvering. 

Are you happy with this? Do you really want vital decisions made to the exclusion of input and feedback from our citizens and other legislators?  What if the matter being discussed impacts you, your family and your community directly — how would you feel then?  

A democracy is based upon trust and open dialog. It is time to stand up and say enough political trickery. The citizens of this state and country deserve a voice.

Linda Porter

Danville