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Some Misconceptions

I’d like to address some misconceptions in John Greene’s Oct. 1 letter [“The Last Thing We Need”] regarding the code of ethics question on the Nov. 3 ballot.

First, he implies that a code of ethics means people are doing something wrong. He should know better. As a founding member of the Taxpayer’s Association, Mr. Greene hasn’t faithfully recorded Board of Selectmen meetings for years to catch wrongdoing. Rather, he knows that transparency makes good government. It’s the same for a code of ethics. It’s not about people doing things wrong. It’s about giving guidance on how to do them right.

Mr. Greene claims that the initiative was orchestrated by a few disgruntled residents that he alleges have a vendetta against First Selectman McDonald. Untrue. Those who gathered signatures came from across Deep River and made the effort because they believe we should join 130 other Connecticut towns in setting ethical standards. And, the 250-plus signers of the petition represented the political spectrum. This was not a partisan effort.

Finally, he claims that if we don’t like the ethics of our elected leaders, we should vote them out. While that might be true, what about commission and committee members, town employees, contractors, and consultants? A code of ethics isn’t just about elected officials. It addresses everyone who has influence in our town or benefits from our hard-earned tax dollars.

As the first selectman said at a recent Board of Selectman’s meeting: Who doesn’t want ethics? I agree. I will be voting “Yes” on Nov. 3.

Kim Clark

Deep River