Editor,

I am writing in response to Michael Shaughnessy’s “Far and Wide” columns. I have been prompted to reply to the various attacks, ironies and inconsistencies that have been expressed since this column began. I have listed out some quotes as well as observations.

Manners, attacks, and your record

In the Jan. 18 column, Shaughnessy cried out for more civility, and then turned and wrote with an acid tongue.

On Dec. 7, 2007, Shaughnessy wrote “It makes it very hard to even read our local papers with the mean-spirited, self-aggrandizing, and often demeaning attitudes found in and within certain editorials, letters and columns.”

His work with the “Far and Wide” column does nothing to ease the difficulty of finding an unbiased civil read from which to track all important town issues.

A study in funny numbers

On Sept. 21, 2007, Shaughnessy wrote that a study finding Windham lower than Cape Elizabeth on spending per capita on parks and recreation was evidence we should be concerned.

This is not exactly a shocking figure when one considers Cape Elizabeth has Portland Headlight and Fort Williams to maintain in addition to other properties. I hope that going forward Shaughnessy will consider important variables before causing people to become overly concerned.

On Oct. 5, 2007, Shaughnessy wrote in a recent study by Cape Elizabeth that Windham spends $31.46 per capita on Windham Parks and Recreation programs when the average of a nearby and comparable community for the same sort of programs is $81.96. He then corrected an error and stated that Windham only spends $13.69. Regardless, of the number thrown out, the fact is that he was one of seven who approved the budget for the last three years, including this figure. How much did the averages concern him during budget votes?

Portland Water District Overspending

On Dec. 14, 2007, Shaughnessy wrote “I do not know the ins and outs of the financials of the Portland Water District…At this point however, all the costs incurred, relative to benefits gained, are more than acceptable.”

The wording that was voted on for this project was very clear in capping the spending at the set amount. Shaughnessy voted for this cap when it was set in place. It is extremely clear that at the time this was voted on the council set a cap for the spending. I believe that we as councilors should always act in the best interest of the citizens of Windham, and as such, have the backbone to hold contractual partners accountable is essential.

It is my sincerest hope that going forward “Far and Wide” will be written in a more civil and consistent manner. The key to being a credible leader is consistency- someone who does not change with the blowing winds.

Having said that, I do applaud Shaughnessy and or anyone who changes their mind after becoming better versed on the issues. Change is good, especially when it is for the betterment of Windham. Please know that I am working hard to support the change that was voted for in last June’s election.

Blaine Davis

Windham Town Councilor