I immigrated to the United States eight years ago and have lived in our beautiful town of Harvard ever since. I love the natural beauty, the kindness of the people, and the peaceful, harmonious life here. I admire our democratic system and the value of free speech. I’m impressed that so many of our town administrators volunteer their time for the good of the community. I still remember attending my first Town Meeting—it was inspiring to see residents respectfully debate important issues and then vote on them together.
However, my confidence in this system was shaken after witnessing the unusual revote on the Old Mill Road land purchase for a sports field at the September Special Town Meeting. At this year’s Town Meeting in May, the article proposing the purchase was voted down. Later, the Select Board announced that, because the article had failed by a slim margin of just three votes, it would be brought back for another vote in September. This time, the article passed—again by the same narrow margin of three votes. The outcome was immediately accepted.
This raises legitimate concerns about consistency and fairness. A democratic vote should be respected regardless of whether the margin is wide or narrow. If a three-vote loss was reason enough to reconsider the issue, then the same standard should apply when it passes by three votes. To accept one outcome while rejecting another under identical circumstances undermines both fairness and public trust.
Democracy relies on consistency, transparency, and evenhanded treatment of all residents. When these principles are not upheld, confidence in our local government begins to erode.
I am grateful to all who serve and volunteer their time for our town. Yet with that service comes an obligation to act impartially and represent the interests of all residents. I hope our town leaders will reflect on this situation, take corrective action, and reaffirm the fairness and integrity that make Harvard such a strong and united community.
Lisa Li
Old Mill Road
