The purpose of the town charter (approved by voters in November) is to advance the effectiveness and efficiency of town governance. Although the charter did not define these terms, Dan Cunningham, by successfully leading the effort to purchase the land trust for the town, made them meaningful.

Following Cunningham’s initiative, the terms now indicate that “effectiveness of governance” means that elected officials will act to implement the will of the voters. Even though the voters approved purchase of the land trust in November, due to many complications (e.g., title searches, transfer of funds, haggling over the price, back taxes, and threats of foreclosure) the prospects of the town making the purchase were grim.

Through Cunningham’s leadership — and support from the Board of Selectmen — the town now owns several hundred acres of open space to be enjoyed by current residents and future generations. This accomplishment represents praiseworthy effectiveness in town governance.

Barry Sheckley

Niantic