The Myth of Faction

It appears Norwich has reached that unhappy state where politics trumps good governance.

Some observers point to bloc voting in recent years as evidence of meaningful differences between two ideologically distinct factions. I simply don't see it.

Instead, I see two loose confederations of individuals, each united primarily in reaction to a perceived transgression by the other. Arguments as to how this all started -- who cast the first stone -- simply highlight the fact both sides feel abundantly provoked. An accumulation of slights have bred a series of personal animosities which now often cloud rational, thoughtful decision-making.

In my view, it is an open question whether the current Selectboard membership and their respective supporters can find a practical path away from the personality-driven politics of the present. Certainly, the path begins with a determination to place the good of the town ahead of the expediency of faction. This requires the discipline of tolerance to take seriously the concerns of those we dislike as legitimate concerns however illegitimately we may feel they have been expressed. It requires the humility to recognize our own proviniciality and seek to understand the views of our opponents for how they might illuminate our own blind spots. And it requires the practical sense to recognize today's slim majority does not further it's own interests by running roughshod over yesterday's slim majority. Finally, it requires the leadership to listen patiently to all sides and treat them all fairly as a good in itself.

The people of Norwich deserve the government we demand. Maybe it's time to ask for more?