Voices

A valuable lesson in civility

PUTNEY — You published a statement from the Aug. 23 Putney Selectboard meeting by Chair Aileen Chute. I can't think of a better example of a highly competent leader in local government explaining to people that their behavior cannot change the way town policies work. By simply reading her statement, I learned a lot about how good town planning protects people.

While strong housing trusts and land trusts are far from perfect, I am grateful that we have them providing alternatives to for-profit slumlords or to people having to live in tents.

I, too, have some fears about public housing, but fear shouldn't power public discourse.

Thank you to all the town Selectboard members and others who donate their time to make government work - and especially to you, Aileen, for your valuable lesson in civility.

This Voices Letters from readers was submitted to The Commons.

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