Letters

President Abraham Lincoln said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” I was dismayed at the divisive discourse that occurred at the December 12 meeting of the Southampton Village Board [“Southampton Village Board Clashes Over Staffing Shakeup,” 27east.com, December 13].

After reading The Press article and viewing the tape of that meeting, I came to the conclusion that there was no victor in the stalemate that occurred. What is evident is that some of the trustees have clearly forgotten what their job is, and why they were elected. The trustees are not elected to act as a rubber-stamp for the Mayor — nor is it their job to throw up roadblocks at every turn and argue about procedures and Robert’s Rules. This seems to be obstruction for obstruction’s sake.

I hope that all of the Village Board members will use the holidays to reflect on the time they have been in office, and make a resolution to improve the way they are using their positions and their privilege and begin the New Year with a fresh start. The village will not be served if it uses the Washington style of political discourse as its model.

When election time comes around, the petty arguments will be forgotten and only the work done will be looked at.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

Joseph R. McLoughlin

Southampton

Mr. McLoughlin is a member of the Southampton Village Planning Commission — Ed.