Nancy, I couldn't agree more. I've hesitated to post any reaction, not having heard anything about what actually went on at the meeting, let alone what reasons might have been given for the abstentions. But it would seem to me that an abstention here is essentially an abdication. As you said, either you think it's a good idea or you don't. Conflict of interest doesn't enter in -- and can't. This is the body charged with making the rules. Vote, one way or another.
<br><br><div><span class="gmail_quote">On 12/7/06, <b class="gmail_sendername">Nancy Mooney</b> <<a href="mailto:nbmooney1@yahoo.com">nbmooney1@yahoo.com</a>> wrote:</span><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;">
<div>Everyone has been doing such a good job expressing themselves about the council/mayor increase that I've remained silent.</div> <div> </div> <div>But I now have to ask - what's up with abstaining? What does that mean? Isn't this what people volunteer to do, to understand what the ward wants and cast a vote accordingly? I'm new to politics so would appreciate someone shedding a light on this.
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