Hubbard politicians not doing best for residents

Hubbard politicians not doing best for residents
EDITOR:
When good people sit back and do nothing, evil thrives. Whether it be a local government taking care of its own, or the federal government favoring imports from China, it will affect us if we stand idly by.
We have a situation where imported steel and other products have dampened our economy. This did not happen overnight. This happens when you do not question politicians.
It starts in small towns like Hubbard, where the politicians make deals with affluent people, which increases the cost of utilities because of such favors. They have cheapened the chemicals in our drinking water, creating a major risk factor to our health and all for the sake of granting more raises and the purchase of vehicles so city employees may take them home.
Presently we are having a building constructed for city workers. The cost has risen $80,000 to more than $320,000 so these workers will enjoy amenities such as a kitchen, showers, etc. -- when they live just blocks away.
The schools are asking for money. Taxes will go up substantially. I don't know about you, but with skyrocketing utilities, taxes, health care, etc., I can't afford any more taxes. Too bad they spent a good portion on a track, field and other non-basic items not related to education. What is really scary is that most of the public officials cannot balance their own checkbooks, but we allow them to control millions of dollars and make decisions that dramatically affect our lives.
MARY R. BENTON
Hubbard
Trumbull commissioners keep missing the boat
EDITOR:
President Ronald Regan had a plaque on his desk which quoted President Harry Truman as follows, "There is no limit to what can be accomplished if you aren't worried about who gets the credit." This perfectly describes the county's recent efforts to establish a prescription drug assistance program for the elderly. They have, in fact, adopted the program that I proposed during my campaign for sate representative last year.
This is by no means a criticism of our commissioners. On the contrary, I do sincerely commend them for responding to the plight of our elderly, who far too often have to make hard choices. Better late than never. As Truman said, it shouldn't matter who gets the credit. But it does bewilder me that our commissioners never sought my input or assistance in this matter. I would gladly have given it because I was addressing this issue before they had even given it a thought. The issue is too important to play politics.
After losing the race for state representative, I began to formulate plans to establish a private agency. If the government was going to continue it's intransigence in addressing the dire needs or our senior citizens, I was determined to do it myself, in conjunction with other good citizens. But now, thank God, the county is going to finally step up to the plate.
Having singularly carried the ball for our seniors until now, my supporters and I now hope that we can be a part of this effort at the county level. Not to consult or receive input from the very people who birthed this idea is to short-change the seniors who stand to benefit.
Why do I write this? Am I fishing for some kind of pat on the back? No, but rather to illustrate to our many young citizens, many of whom feel disenfranchised, that they can make a difference. Merely by participating in the public debate and exchange of ideas, they can accomplish something good.
So become involved. Attend the council meetings, trustees meetings, zoning board or school meetings. Run for office or volunteer for somebody who does. Even if you lose the election, your time is not wasted. You can make a difference and actually help other people.
CHARLES BURGER
Warren