DALTON: Stop citizen division

I am moved to share my disappointment with the Save Dalton Gardens movement. Our country values free speech, but rights are granted with responsibilities and that words carry meaning.

I have reviewed Mayor Roberge’s and Jeff Crandall’s websites and while it is obvious that two groups of people see the same situations from different perspectives, “…Dalton Gardens is at a crossroads…” and “…This may be the last opportunity to determine what direction the City’s development will take…” is just hyperbole. Mr. Crandall should be ashamed of his citizen-division themed website.

Local population is increasing. We need to support decisions that understand this and do not compromise the charm of our townships. The Government Way improvements should reduce the traffic burden of the Fourth Street corridor, which is NOT a rural street and a Fourth Street walking path will not ruin the rural character of an entire city.

Mayor Roberge’s and two city councilmembers’ terms expire this year. Municipal government is one of our country’s democracies. Respecting that Mr. Crandall’s cadre have the right to be upset, they demonstrate impatience through their movement. If they are concerned about a lack of meaningful input into important issues, a more productive solution is to leverage their voices and run for office.

The only thing that needs saving is a city from a handful of residents publicly demonstrating a lack of judgment. Recalling an elected official is an important representative-government safeguard. But such an action should responsibly follow a heinous crime or moral failing that compromises an office, and not be wielded as a response to difficult property use decisions.

ALAN DAVIS

Hayden