Wednesday, 30 April 2008

By the Editor

We support the Charlestown Citizen Alliance’s stand for open government and working to change the composition of the Charlestown Town Council. The arguing and dysfunctional communication between councilors has been an embarrassment to the community.

The CCA is so committed to their cause, they are willing to help anyone looking to run. Anyone, that is, who agrees with their agenda.

But how can anyone argue with ethical, open government?

We like the fact that the CCA is planning to support five candidates for the town council, regardless of their political party. We have often felt that political parties don’t mean as much at the local level and are glad to see an organization recognizing that for the greater good.

We also like their stance on environmental and planning issues such as responsible development. From our perspective Charlestown has seen plenty of development – one look around the salt ponds will tell you that. There are many places with houses crowded on 5,000 square foot lots. We say the natural environment is one of the best things Charlestown has going for it and encourage the protection of what’s left. If you want development, take a drive up Route 2 or down Route 1 in Westerly. It’s not a pretty site.

The CCA also supports fiscal responsibility and opposes a casino of any kind in Charlestown.
Now fiscal responsibility is hard to argue with especially with Rhode Island officially in a recession.

The casino is a touchier subject but we’ll come right out and say we don’t support a casino, of any kind, anywhere. Why? Again take a drive up Route 2 in Ledyard, Conn. and see the ugly monstrosity of Foxwoods rising from the woods and fields. So much for sacred tribal land. Besides gambling is not good for you.

Whether you are for or against the CCA, they have polarized citizens to become involved in local affairs. And that’s a good thing.