LETTER: Debates for elected positions in our town should not be optional.

Letter to the editor from Stephanie D’Alton Barrett, Riverside

I read the following announcement yesterday.

CANCELLED Town Clerk Debate. A scheduled debate for the Town Clerk position on Wednesday, October 30 from 8:00 – 9:00 pm between Molly Saleeby (D) and Carmella Budkins (R) was cancelled due to the last-minute response and inability of Carmella Budkins (R) to participate.

Debates for elected positions in our town should not be optional.  They should be a requirement for anyone who wishes to seek that position.

Debates allow voters to hear what the candidates qualifications are , as well as their ideas for how he or she would seek to improve the office. Debates also let voters ask the candidates questions.  It is my understanding that Carmella Budkins has never participated in a candidate debate. She should not pass up this opportunity to allow the voters to get to know her.

As an independent voter, I will be supporting the candidate who is willing to debate.  I feel that candidate will be accessible to constituents and open to new ideas on ways to improve the way the town clerk’s office functions .

Stephanie D’Alton Barrett
Riverside