Letter to the editor: Let the people vote

Editor’s note: The Portager publishes letters to the editor from the community. The opinions expressed are published not because they necessarily reflect those of the publication but because we feel they contribute meaningfully to the local discourse on matters of public interest.

Regarding Kent City Council’s actions and comments pertaining to the City Charter Review Commissions call for non partisan elections for our city: It is without a doubt an ultimate example of hypocrisy! 

All the city charter commission recommended was to bring to the voters of the City of Kent the idea of non-partisan elections. What this means is, this idea or proposed change to our charter is put on the ballot for the tax paying citizens of Kent to vote their options regarding this proposal.

What are our council members afraid of? Giving their citizens their right to vote or keeping their jobs? Based on the council members comments, it appears that keeping their positions is more important than inclusive and open elections.

With 79% of Kent registered voters unaffiliated, what is the need for a D or R next to your name.

The council’s comments were insulting to our educated voters. Vote for the person, not the party!

Council members, your actions speak much louder than your words. You preach inclusion and democracy but what you have just shown is the complete opposite. What you are saying to the citizens of Kent is this: “We the council do not think you have the right to vote on this issue. We need to keep our jobs!”

This is an embarrassment!  Please let the citizens of Kent vote.

— Peter Paino, Kent