Letter to the Editor: Say raising questions essential to progress

The letter from Cory Blunt (Chronicle EXTRA, Feb. 20) criticizing the Board of Supervisors for raising questions about the Planning Commission shows what is wrong with our current political system.

His comments about them insulted their intelligence and pre-judged their motives without first asking whether the questions being raised have validity. He obviously has his opinion and entitled to it. But why is he offended by the questions being raised? After all, raising questions and healthy debate are the means of progress.

I am not aware of anyone claiming that the Planning Commission doesn’t have a valid and important role or who is trying to deny citizens representation. Claims to the contrary are troubling and raise questions about motivation.

Planning commissions are required by the Commonwealth. But, the Commonwealth doesn’t mandate a specific size or make them immune from evaluations of efficiency and effectiveness. The Commonwealth requires that they be between five and 15 members. Most of the counties around us have five or seven.

It is precisely during challenging economic times and when state funds to counties are being reduced questions about effectiveness and efficiency are essential.

Because an organization has functioned a certain way for a long period of time is not evidence that it can’t be improved. What makes the current composition of 11 the right size? How much does it cost the county in staff time and consultants to support the commission? What was the cost of developing the comprehensive plan that was harshly criticized by citizens and members of the board? Was it commission arrogance that led it to ignore those criticisms? Could a comprehensive plan be developed more efficiently and in a form that is easier for citizens to comprehend? Has the commission ever taken the time to seriously consider how it could carry out its mission more effectively?

Whether it is debating the performance of national, state, or country government, we need more constructive dialogue and fewer personal attacks.

William O’Keefe
Providence Forge