At the past two Town Council meetings, Chair Gary Foster has used the Chair Report as a forum to editorialize on his political beliefs. He has elegantly quoted Thomas Jefferson and other founding fathers of our great country. Is Foster the only one left in Gray with any passion? I think so, based on the poor turnout at town council meetings.

Last week the Council voted on appealing the recent Superior Court ruling that declared the Pennell property belongs to the trust. I counted on one hand the number of public speakers. Here was an issue that divided our town for nearly two years, but when it came to a final vote, apparently nobody cared.

Thomas Jefferson and his compatriots were passionate, sometimes angry people. They channeled their emotions into building a new country. Why aren't we channeling our emotions into building a new community?

Granted, life gets in the way of what we would really like to do. I work a full-time job in Portland, then come home to work evenings at our home business, but I make the time to attend town council meetings because I want to make Gray a better place to live.

Our town councilors are passionate about making Gray a better town, too. And, like any leaders, their decisions are influenced by the voice of the people. Sadly, we choose to stay silent. Speak up, Gray!