Last week I watched in horror as accusations were made against two town councilors who have given years of responsible guidance and support to Freeport. The dispute, as I understand it, involves one councilor questioning the legality of two signatures on another councilor’s nominating petition and whether there had been proper “eyewitness” acknowledgement by the circulator. The merits of those accusations will be determined by other councilors. My concern is the perception this spectacle creates.

For more than 40 years I have watched Freeport grow and have a great deal of respect for those among us that step forward to serve our community by seeking elective office. We have been served well. I am appalled at finger-pointing and threats especially when it involves people who have more than proved themselves to be upstanding citizens of this community.

The only place in our democracy, in my opinion, for deciding who should serve the community in elective office is the ballot box. I am writing to ask my fellow citizens to pay attention to those seeking election to the Town Council and what their agendas are, and to support the election of candidates that will serve Freeport responsibly. The future is in your hands, so please take the next few weeks to really get to know the candidates for the council and decide who you want to provide the direction you want for your community.

Caroline Southall
Freeport