Time For Quiet (Valley News Op-Ed)

As most readers of this paper are by now well aware, a struggle is currently underway regarding proposed alterations to a Class 4 road in Norwich. An abutting landowner contends that he has a right to clear trees and regrade this Class 4 road at his own expense to make it passable for vehicles. Some neighbors and others who hike this "road" oppose him, arguing that Class 4 roads are public assets meant to benefit the public. Thus, they argue, where the public interest is better served by keeping the road a hiking trail, an abutter's desire to alter it for vehicular use must give way. I see merits in both arguments and Vermont law govering Class 4 roads appears somewhat ambiguous on this issue. Not surprisingly, the matter is now before the courts and will likely result in a significant ruling further clarifying landowner rights and municipal authority in Vermont. A great deal can be said about the important legal principles at issue in this case, but I want to express my opinion regarding a more subtle, and more disturbing, aspect to this struggle.

Norwich town government, as in most Vermont towns, depends on the volunteer efforts of individuals and the collective civility of the entire population to work effectively. Norwich has been blessed with a rich history of individuals, from a variety of backgrounds, giving generously of their time to keep town government working. Unfortunately, like many blessings, this tradition of volunteer service seems often to be taken for granted. However generously offered, it is, nevertheless, a limited resource which the people of this town must respect and conserve if it is to continue.

The Bradley Hill Class 4 road/trail issue illustrates how easily the limited resources of small town government can be strained. The bi-weekly battles over this issue have significantly interfered with the Selectboard's agenda and delayed consideration of a large number of other important town issues. I see no useful purpose to these persistent attempts to force the Selectboard's hand in this matter. The legal principles at issue in the case are already before the courts. Both sides appear to possess the resources and determination to fully litigate these issues and supporters on each side have reason to be confident their positions will be well-represented. The Selectboard has convened an ad hoc committee to recommend a uniform policy regarding Class 4 roads. My point is simply that small towns such as Norwich depend on both the sacrifice of those who serve and the civility of those who seek town action. We all benefit from the individual courage of those who speak up, but we are best served when they also exhibit the good judgment to know when to shut up. Let's give the courts time to do their job, let the Town's ad hoc committee on Class 4 roads do its job, and let the Selectboard move on to the Town's other business.