Portsmouth Council faces transparency and fairness concerns raised by local activist

Portsmouth City Council faced significant community concerns during its April 14, 2025 meeting, as residents voiced frustrations over transparency and fairness in local governance. A key moment came when a representative from the Shawnee State Young Democrats urged council members to prioritize open communication and equitable treatment for all constituents.

The speaker highlighted a growing sentiment among residents who feel overlooked and unheard, emphasizing that transparency goes beyond just holding open meetings. It involves building trust through consistent and honest communication. The removal of public commenting on social media and unresponsiveness to emails were cited as major issues contributing to a breakdown in representation.

A particularly contentious topic was the council's handling of a water credit proposal for local parks, which was swiftly approved without clear financial justification. In contrast, requests for similar support from three local organizations serving vulnerable populations were met with hesitation and bureaucratic obstacles. This disparity raised questions about fairness and consistency in decision-making, prompting calls for equal treatment of all community groups.

The speaker urged the council to adopt a resolution from the Shawnee State Young Democrats, which aims to foster inclusivity and address biases in governance. They argued that such actions would not only improve the city economically but also demonstrate the council's commitment to serving all residents, regardless of their background.

As the meeting concluded, the message was clear: for Portsmouth to move forward, it must embrace transparency, fairness, and respect for all voices in the community. The council's next steps will be crucial in rebuilding trust and ensuring that every resident feels valued and heard.