John seeks fifth year as Templeton town moderator advocating for privacy and participation

In the heart of Templeton, where the echoes of community voices blend with the hum of local governance, the annual election season is heating up. At a recent meeting, current Town Moderator John shared his vision for the upcoming election and his candidacy for a fifth term. With a deep-rooted connection to the town, having lived there most of his life, John brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to enhancing the town meeting experience.

As moderator, John has focused on making town meetings more accessible and engaging for residents. He acknowledged the challenges of participation, noting that only about 70 out of over 6,000 voters typically attend these crucial gatherings. To address concerns about privacy, he successfully advocated for changes that allow residents to provide their names without disclosing their street numbers during live broadcasts. This small yet significant adjustment aims to encourage more residents to participate without fear of being identified.

John also introduced a two-minute speaking rule to streamline discussions, ensuring that all voices can be heard without overwhelming the agenda. He believes that this time limit allows residents to express their thoughts succinctly while maintaining the meeting's flow. “If someone is making sense, I let them go,” he remarked, emphasizing his role as a facilitator who values community input.

In addition to procedural changes, John has made efforts to improve the physical environment of town meetings, such as marking the handicap section in the auditorium. These enhancements reflect his belief that even minor adjustments can significantly impact community engagement.

Looking ahead, John highlighted a proposed bylaw change that would introduce electronic voting at town meetings. This initiative aims to provide anonymity and ease of participation, allowing residents to vote on articles with a simple push-button system. “It’s about making it easier for people to have their say,” he explained, underscoring the importance of adapting to modern needs.

As the election approaches, John’s candidacy represents a blend of experience, community focus, and a desire to foster greater participation in local governance. With his commitment to improving town meetings, he hopes to inspire more residents to engage in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of all Templeton residents are heard and valued.