BRATTLEBORO-While it's encouraging that we're finally approaching a more inclusive way of recognizing the voices of Brattleboro residents, let's not stop short. Let's take this initiative all the way to the finish line - and make it truly inclusive for all.
The survey that solidified the proposed Representative Town Meeting (RTM) changes made one thing clear: many of us want a different forum - one where every voice is heard and, even more importantly, every vote counts equally.
We now have the opportunity to let every Brattleboro citizen participate - to decide for themselves whether or not to vote, and to do so in the privacy and dignity of their own space. Not everyone can spend hours or even days at Town Meetings. Not everyone feels comfortable speaking publicly, raising hands or standing up to vote especially when they fear repercussions for their vote.
The Australian ballot system solves this. It ensures that every voice can be heard, regardless of schedule, comfort level, or ability to attend in person. It opens the door to those who have long been left out - our elderly neighbors who helped build this town, or a single parent juggling work and children, who is as much a part of Brattleboro's future as anyone else.
This is why the "one person, one vote" Australian ballot initiative is not just a good idea - it's the right one for our town. Really.
Zsolt Pomazi
Brattleboro
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