Committees should not involve politics

One of the ways residents can assist their community is by joining a volunteer committee. In return for their time and commitment, residents should expect their elected officials to ensure that the committee serves the community as a whole. Without employing this minimum standard, the bedrock of any community would be lost. This is especially true for a small, historic village like Williamsville.

Volunteering, however, is a privilege and not a right. For the past five years, I have had the privilege to volunteer in several organizations that assist inner city children. During that time, I learned that a successful volunteer organization can only succeed if everyone is working together for a common goal.

Since last July when I was fortunate enough to be elected to the Village Board, I have tried to change the culture at Village Hall to guarantee that all aspects of government, including our committees, are open to all regardless of one's political affiliations. Our village is simply too important to allow meaningless perceptions to detour our progress.

As we have witnessed recently, changing the culture at Village Hall will not come easily, as those who have benefited from looking at the village through a political prism will try to prevent this change from happening. Due to the tremendous support I have received since last July, the criticism from a select few will not stop those of us who expect more from their government and, by extension, their volunteer committees. Thank you.
Jeff Kingsley
Trustee
Village of Williamsville