I attended the Oct. 21 Conservation Commission meeting that covered two long-ranging items that included lengthy specialist input. 

It was refreshing to see the chairperson patiently going through the details of each, making sure that nothing was rushed or overlooked. At one point she recognized me as a resident, asking if there was anything I wanted to say. 

It has been such a long time since I’ve had that kind of response at one of our public meetings I was almost taken back. I can’t tell you how much I appreciated being given the chance (although I did not speak ) to express my opinion or questions regarding the items on the agenda.

I do believe that if all of Lakeville’s board meetings were to adopt this respectful approach to the residents who attend, they would be surprised at the respect returned to them by the gesture. 

There are current events and issues that are going to require patience both ways, but muzzling our residents is not the way to go.

Noelle Rilleau

Lakeville