If weather could foreshadow the political climate, then last week’s severe thunderstorms and tornado touchdowns were an excellent prediction of the storm brewing in Lysander.
In the past decade, there hasn’t been much excitement surrounding the town of Lysander elections. This year, however, residents are heated about everything from cemeteries and dog control to staffing and expenditures, and a select few intend to do something about how the town is currently run. Their petulance is evident at the town board meetings (held the second and fourth Mondays of every month).
In the past five to six years, there has been little interest in town business unless there is a concentrated area of concern (i.e. new development affecting neighbors, formation of drainage districts, etc.) resulting in relatively uneventful meetings. Until recently, a typical board meeting consisted of three Lysander residents (Hugh Kimball, Jim Strysniak and Billy Palmer), who regularly questioned the board about various issues, a PAC-B TV volunteer (recording the meeting) and any citizen with a specific concern.
In the past eight to 10 months, attendance has ballooned with citizens scrutinizing agenda items and addressing their own concerns.
This increased participation is a good thing, especially if it leads to a public that is better educated and a more open government. Residents should know what is going on in their local government because it is where their voices can be so readily heard. Having said that, it is also important for residents to listen and process the information being given to them, not simply ask questions and make comments to get a rise out of the audience, then ignore responses.
There have been accusations there is some type of conspiracy regarding town politicians and businesses. While officials deny any conspiracy or hidden agendas (i.e. Budweiser leaving, residents being bullied), these residents are convinced the cover up runs deep in the town’s political operations. This has led a few to unofficially announce their intent to run for office and to dethrone the current regime, specifically Supervisor Barry Bullis.
Regardless of whether conspiracy exists, it is ultimately up to the residents of Lysander to make the decision who stays, who goes and who wins in November. To get an idea of the representatives on the existing town board, either attend the board meetings or watch them on PAC-B TV (Channels 98 and 1498).
Ultimately, to make the best choice of representatives, pay attention during the upcoming political season – it’s sure to be the storm of the century.
