Archive: Opinions

A curious dynamic occurred at the October 16th Town Board meeting: A motion was made and seconded, requesting that a certain topic (relating to a significant donation to the Lansing Republican Committee) not be mentioned during the "privilege of the floor" public speaking section of the meeting. This led to a chilling effect on certain speakers (one woman waived her privilege that she had signed up for, abiding by the request), but then eight people were allowed to speak to that topic, including the chair of the Tompkins County Republican Party.

Fairness of process, especially regarding public participation, is fundamental to our democracy. When the Town leaders extend a privilege to some, but discourage others through an official action, they create an imbalance of perspectives being heard from the public.

I respectfully ask the Town attorney to weigh in on whether the intention of the motion coheres with First Amendment rights.

I hope the residents of Lansing will vote on Nov. 5 (or via early voting; www.votetompkins.com) for fair processes, transparency, and open public participation in matters that affect the welfare of our entire community.

Mike Koplinka-Loehr
Lansing, NY
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