Welcome to the continuing series of discussions with thought leaders who are bringing new and innovative solutions to the challenges government faces in delivering services to the citizen.
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Last Tuesday we the citizens of Ipswich carried on a
tradition that is documented to have taken place in town since at least 1635.
The tradition of the town meeting in Ipswich is as close to the ideal of a pure
democracy as any form of self-governance demonstrated across history. Any voter
may attend the town meeting, address the body on topics germane to the issues
and vote. This unique franchise is something to be cherished and preserved.
The Ipswich Town meeting is more than just a historical
artifact. It is a living legislative body. Real issues that impact the day to
day lives of the citizens of the town are decided upon by those affected by
their decisions. Rules are made. Money
is spent. Taxes levies are recommended to the ballot. Unique to just about
every other form of government, this deliberative process results in votes cast
not by proxy by a representative in some distant legislature. These decisions are made by neighbors, with
neighbors, for the good of the community.
As different from the 17th century as is the world of today,
the matters of community dealt with at the town meetings remain remarkably
similar. During the April 20, 1635 meeting the issues deliberated included
regulations on fencing of house lots and the distribution of land grants. Last
Tuesday we the people of Ipswich decided issues including the grant of an
easement providing public access to the Ipswich River and regulations for the
location of marijuana dispensaries in town.
There are also stark and telling differences between the
town meeting of history and today. These distinctions inform part of the
reasons that the town meeting remains essential. In 1635 only a few select
individuals were able to make decisions that affected anyone living in town.
Today although we retain some of the vestiges of those days in such
institutions as the Board of Selectman, the town meeting has evolved into a
democratic institution that is uniquely American. That you are registered to
vote in the Town is the only qualification to attend and participate.
The Ipswich Town meeting is a living demonstration of the
American political ideal of inclusion. More importantly in an age of
factionalism and gridlock, government in Ipswich works. We come together as a
community, we debate as a community and we decide as a community.
Is it perfect? No institution involving people can ever be
perfect. Nor can everyone be happy when
difficult decision are made. The town meeting reflects our human condition. We
are the town meeting.
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October 15, 2013 Special Town Meeting Resources:
- Town of Ipswich Home Page
- Massachusetts Secretary Of State’s Website
- Acquire a copy of Town Meeting Time
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Warmest regards,
Guy Clinch
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