I sat back down.
We used our clicker remotes (instead of our traditional waving of neon cards) to vote.
Our amendment was the only one to pass.
I did it.
The town’s residents in attendance did it. My amendment won something like 112 to 44.
I am not one to boast or let pride get to me, quite the opposite, but this time…I am so very proud. And grateful. Grateful that another resident allowed me to go first AND he also spoke strongly on our behalf. Grateful that others voiced their support at the mic. Grateful to serve on this committee and to feel that I CAN have an impact on our town.
I’m still hopeful the override vote on the ballot passes, so all departments can get their budgets, so many staff get the step-up raises or cost of living wages they deserve, so that my amendment is moot and we have more money back in our town’s “free cash” fund and even better budget than the one I proposed.
I’m also hopeful that more residents will feel compelled to attend town meetings—because 150 people of thousands cannot be left to make all these important decisions and because it is our right as citizens to let our voices be heard.
Oh and here’s a lovely aside…I’ve been working on a new manuscript (just finished my final round of edits after nearly 2 years writing/editing/taking a break) about a small town librarian fighting to save the library that’s been in her family for generations. :-) Life lends itself to inspire, doesn’t it?
Thank you to all who came and supported the library!