The most frequently voiced complaint I have heard in the last few weeks is the lack of representation of the average resident on boards and committees. This results in a pretty homogenous group of people who keep getting appointed and re-appointed. In part, it can be explained under the old “birds of a feather” adage. You can only appoint people you know and you generally make friends in your own socio-economic group. There also exists the suspicion, that those who don’t fit the profile of the well-to-do get short shrift in the interview process. The interview is sometimes pro forma and it is communicated to the applicant that he doesn’t stand the proverbial snow ball’s chance of being nominated. I know that both of those scenarios have and do occur.
But there is also a third possibility. Maybe the people who should apply just don’t do it. There can be a number of reasons. Writing an application letter is intimidating. What do you say? What are the criteria? Will they use what I write to make fun of me? All of those are valid concerns. I hate to write about myself, or even talk about myself. For me, it’s been the most difficult part of running for office.
If I find a problem, I try to fix it and this seems to be a problem. So, let’s try to build a sense of community in Bedford together. Let’s assume that the first two explanations for the make up of the boards and committees is no longer operational. That leaves the third possibility and that’s where I can help. If you want to apply and want help with your application, just call or email me and we’ll sit down together and get it done. My telephone number and email address are both on my website, www.elainetefft.com.
Before I decided to address this issue, I checked at the town office to find out how many applications had been received for the committee to study the wetland regulations and was told they have only received four.
I hope that at least half of those were sent in by residents who have signed the petitioned article that is going to be voted on March 13th.
That’s also the same day that you will vote on the candidates for town council.
