Question the Candidates: III Anne McAndrews

If elected, what would you do to promote open government in Larchmont?

First, I would convey a sense of openness, of approachability to the residents of Larchmont. I would be open to their concerns, anxious to help, eager to explain. A major reason I am seeking to return to the Board is that I missed the "constituent contact." I found that I truly enjoyed the interaction between resident and Trustee.

Next, I would use my legal training to assess the current Village policy on meetings with an eye towards the New York State Open Meetings Law. I am concerned about the lack of public notice of meetings of the Board of Trustees on the budget, on the Flint Park renovation, on new stormwater regulations, on zoning code reform, to use a few examples. Work sessions should be opened to anyone interested in attending.

Beyond the letter of the law, the Flint Park renovation is a perfect example of a closed process that should be opened up early in its planning. Preliminary plans should be exhibited in the Library and Village Hall, for all to see. I would have a series of open meetings where the Board and landscape architect can listen to suggestions and comment from the entire community. The added benefit of this
approach is that the community also learns about the concerns and needs of all of its members. We learn from each other. For example, have bike paths been included? What about the use of fields for lacrosse? Has the Hommocks or its PTA been asked to comment since so many students walk through the fields on the way to school or they are driven into the park to be dropped off? These are the type of questions and concerns that should be addressed early.

On a practical level, each Trustee receives a directory of Village staff and committee members. This information, even in an abbreviated form, should be on the Village website.

Open government means a commitment to openness of the process, to inclusion of many opinions during deliberations and to a respect for the contributions of our volunteers.