Why let nonresidents vote on community councils?

To the editor:

I have some questions regarding Mat-Su Borough Mayor Larry DeVilbiss’s proposal to allow nonresidents a vote in community councils.

Why is it necessary? What is the impetus behind the proposal? What is the objective?

Nonresidents are welcome to attend and participate in council meetings, but allowing them a vote would diminish the voice of the folks who actually reside, work and volunteer in these communities. Community councils are an important — albeit advisory only — conduit for residents to communicate with each other and with the borough.

Speaking of communication, I’d like to know what the various community councils have done, if anything, to communicate with their residents regarding this proposal. I belong to the Moose Creek/Soapstone Community Council, and the current council members have been emphatic about keeping all residents informed about all issues affecting our community. I have not heard from any of these members about this proposal and am curious to know why not.

Krista Maciolek

Palmer