In Vermont, "Town Meeting" Is Democracy. What Can The Rest Of The Country Learn From It?

[TTL News 308]

Quote

 

Town Meeting is a tradition that, in Vermont, dates back more than 250 years, to before the founding of the republic. But it is under threat. Many people feel they no longer have the time or ability to attend such meetings. Last year, residents of neighboring Morristown voted to switch to a secret ballot system, ending their town meeting tradition.

Not so in Elmore, population 886. Its residents are used to holding tight to traditions. They’ve fought to keep open their post office, their store and their school, the last one-room schoolhouse in the state. Last fall, Elmore residents voted 2-1 in favor of keeping their town meetings.

And so it is at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday in March, when, atop an elevated stage, moderator Jon Gailmor stands up. 

“Good morning, everyone, and welcome to democracy,” he says. “This is the real thing, and we should all be proud that we’re doing this.”

 

Very Interesting article. Check it out here.

[Adam 373]

honestly ive never agreed with secret ballots. if you believe i something, own it and defend your stance with logic or whatever is appropriate

[Chris 2,162]

It seems to be working well for at least one small town in Vermont. 

The expectation of civility and respect is key of course. In "some" small towns, just having a different viewpoint and respectfully disagreeing makes you a pariah.