Nazareth Councilman Opens Committee Meetings, But Only if You Keep Your Mouth Shut

Just eight days ago, Nazareth ended its practice of conducting committee hearings privately. I had filed suit over this bad habit, contending it was a Sunshine Act violation. But I withdraw that suit immediately after learning that Nazareth had finally seen the light - the sunlight.

Only one member of Nazareth's borough council had voted against involving the public in government - ComradeConrad Bowers. He previously told a reporter that giving the people a say in their own government made it "too unwieldy." Gee, I think Stalin must have felt that way, too.

Although borough council has spoken loud and clear, Comrade Conrad is dragging his feet. Becky Butz, one of Nazareth's many concerned citizens, attended yesterday's transition committee hearing, conducted at 4 PM when most of us are at work. Although she was allowed to attend the meeting, she was denied the opportunity to speak.

Evelyn: "May I ask a question?"

Comrade Conrad: "No, this is a committee meeting."

Evelyn later explained, "I thought 'open' meant open door, open to the public, open discussion, open minds, etc." And she's right. This is not complicated. Under the Sunshine Act, the public must be afforded a "reasonable opportunity" to address even a committee on any matter of concern. Technically, she does not have the right to ask questions, but has every right to make her views known.

Comrade Conrad does not get this because he does not want to get it. He's going to have to explain to voters next year why he thinks they don't matter. And if he insists on refusing to follow council's own resolution, he should be censored.