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Place the Interests of Clinton First

In Clinton, many people know each other. Some are personal friends who also have business relationships. Some are family relations. This is normal as far as it goes, but some will ultimately serve on town boards and commissions where land use and other important issues are decided. They are now in a position to help friends where temptation and pressure can be strong. These relationships cause a conflict of interest. There have been applications before Planning & Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals where such conflicts exist. What can be done? Not much; behavior is in the hands of each commissioner for whom honor and character need to rule. When the appearance of a conflict exists, they should recuse themselves from those applications.

Why do I bring this up? Because there seems to be a growing consensus that factors other than the best interests of Clinton can be at play. It is hard to prove or even know how real it is, but since perception is reality, the smart play is to avoid this pitfall.

Subtle pressure, implied and often unspoken, can be influential. Sometimes direct lobbying by such friends occurs that can be strong. It is the duty of each member of a board or commission to place the interests of Clinton first and to do the right thing. They will know in their heart what is right. Those who get mad at them for a decision are not their friends; they are working their own agendas.

It takes courage to say ‘No,’ but they will be able to live with themselves. Saying “No” to a self-serving proposal is hardest the first time, but doing so will set them free and a weight will be lifted! After that it will be easy to veto bad proposals, which are numerous.

Phil Sengle

Clinton