Citizens, paper can both do a better job

I agree with Mr. Willis Farnham's concern (May 4th Letter to Editor) regarding local issues in ones own community. I also agree with his viewpoint that newspapers could do a much better job at disseminating information to us. By summarizing the highlights of each local board meeting, residents could be more informed of what's happening in their towns.

However, the best way for "citizens to feel a personal connection to their communities" is to go to the board meetings. By doing so you'll be made aware of what's going on as it happens. You can observe your elected officials at work, and if there's a matter of concern to you, you'll be able to speak up or question it.

It is a sad fact that most Board rooms are filled with empty chairs. Most people aren't interested in attending a board meeting unless they have an "ax to grind" or are involved in a matter that will affect them personally.

Granted, board meetings can be boring to the casual observer, but if it's knowledge you want about your community, that's the place to be. If you want an education on how your elected officials work for you and the betterment of your community, that's the place to be. You can keep your elected officials on their toes by showing up from time to time and let them know you're paying attention.

The Daily Herald has (or did have) reporters at all the board meetings. Surely the paper could publish a summary of events discussed at the meetings to better keep the residents informed. How about a bimonthly "Local Board Meetings" summary section? That would be a welcome addition for those of us who do care about local government and issues, not just at election time, but all the time.

Mary Byrne

Hanover Park