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As you settle into your new home, we would like to welcome you to town, and inform you of a great opportunity. Like all citizens, you have the power to determine what role our local, state, and federal governments will play in our lives. Of course I'm referring to your right to vote, and our participatory democracy. Though nothing is more precious than freedom and our democracy, few citizens exercise their constitutional right to vote, and even fewer take advantage of our citizen government. If you haven't already done so, we urge you to register to vote at the Town Hall, or, by printing & completing the Mail-In Voter Registration Form available here. Many believe their single vote is insignificant and will not affect the outcome of elections. Nothing could be further from the truth! Many elections are won (and lost) by small margins. John F. Kennedy beat Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 presidential election by only 100,000 votes. At the local level, Board of Education seats have been determined by one vote. And, of course, we always will remember the 2000 presidential election !! As you weigh your decision to register, please consider joining the Republican Party. From Abraham Lincoln, to Teddy Roosevelt, to Ronald Reagan our party has established a great tradition and record in fighting for freedom, individual responsibility, and sound economic policy. No party has unanimity on all issues, and so our party seeks your registration as a Republican with no litmus test on specific issues. Whether or not you register Republican, please also consider participating in your town government. The town has many Boards and Commissions you can participate in and have an impact on their decision making. For example, if environmental and zoning issues interest you, then you might like to serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Or, your interest in your child's education might lead you toward serving on the Board of Education. Citizen participation is crucial for the success of our democracy. All vacancies on all boards and commissions are filled through town residents volunteering their time. One purpose of the local Democrat or Republican Town Committees is to nominate volunteers for election to the boards and commissions. Town residents who decide to join the Democrat or Republican Town Committees have the privilege of deciding the party nominee for Tax Collector, all the way up to the president of the United States. This decision making power is not available to unaffiliated voters. You have a great opportunity to get involved and make a difference. We hope you don't take this opportunity and your freedom for granted. If you have any questions, need assistance registering, or would like information on serving your community, please let me know. You can E-Mail me or call me at 738-1383. Dave Moulton Chairman, Barkhamsted Republican Town Committee |