League of Women Voters®
of Concord-Carlisle, Massachusetts
Making Democracy Work
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
In response to member requests, the LWVCC is focusing this year's local program and action on Making Direct Democracy Thrive. The New England town meeting has been referred to as "the purest form of democracy" because it gives each citizen a voice in determining how their town will be run and how much money will be appropriated to pay for town services.
On the 27th, citizens will have an opportunity to learn about ways to get engaged in the pre-annual town meeting process as well as actively participate in Carlisle and Concord town meetings. If you have questions about how town meetings work or thoughts on how they can be improved, plan to attend.
Three additional meetings, co-sponsored by the League and the Concord Free Public Library are planned where citizens can learn how a warrant is created and where there is opportunity for the public to review warrant articles prior to town meeting. The intent is to publicize ways citizens can be informed and participate in the meetings and public hearings that take place in Carlisle and Concord before every town meeting.
Diane Proctor, President of LWVCC notes: "Town meetings
are critical sessions, where we allocate millions of tax
dollars--in addition to town and school budgets--to varied purposes. The input of our citizens and their vote matters.
We hope many residents will attend these forums to prepare
for active engagement in the town meeting process."
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