My understanding of a democracy is that the government is supposed to be one that is “of, by, and for the people.” An example of a governmental process that has not been democratic is the West Branch conservation easement negotiations. The entire process has been conducted by the executive branch of the government without legislative oversight, although there is some judicial concerns by way of a recent attorney general’s memorandum.

Worst of all has been the secrecy of the negotiations and the refusal of the negotiators to entertain the people’s inquiries. But it’s never been a secret that executive branch bureaucrats have a propensity to reject citizen inquiry and participation by those who question their acts or decisions. Since they are spending the people’s money on the West Branch conservation easement, I resent being shut out of the process, individually and through my legislators.

I invite the people to call their legislators and let them know your feelings. If you don’t, you may soon wake up only to find out that your conservation dollars have not been spent wisely.

William R. Randall

Winthrop