Time for Cooperation and Civility

To the Editor:

Pierre Rochman is my friend! He is a good man. He has resigned from the Legislative Council and the Republican Party. Why? The tone of the Legislative Council meeting of September 5 was filled with acrimonious remarks. Before the meeting began, the atmosphere had been poisoned by newspaper statements like “Mr Rochman’s actions are outrageous” and “the chairman of the council is hiding behind the attorney in order to justify his actions…” (8/31/01) During the council’s discussion, members of the Charter Revision Commission interrupted several times and Chairman Rochman was forced to restore order.

When Mr Rochman recommended the council pay Attorney Chipman for services rendered, the first selectman commented something like I wish you were as willing to give me money when I request it as you are to pay Mr Chipman. Later, some members argued against paying the attorney. And so – Pierre resigned.

Pierre, always the gentleman, thank you for your years of service. Please know that many of us appreciate your efforts on behalf of the town. You have shown us that differences of opinion must be respected. The bitterness must be left behind. It is time for all of us to rededicate ourselves to cooperation and civility.

Ruby Johnson

16 Chestnut Hill Road, Sandy Hook September 26, 2001