I am writing in response to Matt Jones’ Aug. 22 letter “Suggestion for a public survey.” 

He starts by saying the city appears to be spending millions of taxpayers’ dollars on projects where the public has little to say in how the funds are allocated. He says that although town hall meetings are open, turnout seems to be limited and the opinions of those who do attend do not seem to influence the representatives’ votes.

While I agree that turnout at Ashland city meetings is limited, my experience with Ashland city government has been excellent. I have been part of a community group advocating for three months to maintain trails in the Roca Creek Canyon. The city meetings are open and also available to watch on Zoom. Agendas and minutes are posted on the Ashland city website. Citizens can speak to agenda items or submit written testimony.

The city staff have been helpful and responsive to answer questions and provide information. The council listens and considers input. They have changed and adapted action in response to our testimony.  It is a lot of work to research and understand the complexities of an issue. 

A survey or a petition can be helpful input but often is a simplistic answer without a full understanding.

I encourage anyone to attend a city government meeting — City Council, Planning Commission, city Parks Commission, etc. Democracy needs citizen participation. City government officials need our support and input to make good decisions.  Please find a way to get involved. The future of our democracy depends on it.  

Alison Laughlin

Ashland