GREENSBORO, The Hardwick Gazette is hosting a public forum on ways to strengthen local democracy, scheduled for June 22 at the Highland Center for the Arts. The event, titled “Strengthening Local Democracy: Exploring ‘Both/And’ Ideas,” runs from 5 to 8 p.m. and includes free dinner and child care.
The forum will be led by Susan Clark, author of several books on local governance, including “Slow Democracy” and “All Those in Favor,” which examines Vermont town meetings. Clark has worked with towns across the region to explore options for improving democratic access and engagement, including the use of Australian balloting.
The discussion comes as several area towns consider changes to their voting procedures. Greensboro has a special town meeting scheduled for June 30 to decide whether to shift all Town Meeting Day voting to Australian ballot. Hardwick held a special town meeting on May 19 but deferred the decision while the select board appoints a task force to study the issue. Craftsbury previously worked with Clark on similar questions.
The evening will begin with snacks and a presentation by Clark on community values around local democracy, followed by a light meal and further discussion. The forum will adjourn at 8 p.m.
Those needing child care should email [email protected] with “June 22 Childcare” in the subject line. For more information, contact the Hardwick Gazette.
Originally reported by Hardwick Gazette.
Photo: Luis Quintero via Pexels. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
Log in as a subscriber to comment, or become a member.