Street representatives sought for Brockport committee

When she was elected a Brockport village trustee, Connie Castaneda vowed to form a committee geared toward opening the lines of communication between residents and village officials.

"When I was campaigning a lot of people that I spoke with had concerns about coming to the board meetings," she said. "They said they thought they were too formal and a bit intimidating and it was awkward for them to come and speak."

Because of those conversations and after learning that former mayor Mary Ann Thorpe had hosted informal meetings, Castaneda thought it was time to jump start the idea of a Village Advisory Committee.

"I want everyone to feel welcome and to think they have a forum where they can come and air concerns," she said. "It's a good way for more community members to be involved in their local government."

The idea and the enthusiasm of Castaneda is certainly there; what is missing are the village residents to form the committee, she said.

"So far nine people have applied to be on the committee," Castaneda said. "We're hoping to sign up a few more - ideally we would have one representative from every street in the village."

If the village receives applications from more than one individual per street, there will be a lottery to see who will sit on the committee. Castaneda said she is hoping for a full committee of about 30 members. The idea of the advisory committee received complete board support and a unanimous vote on a resolution for its formation.

"Once we start meeting we will have broader community involvement and it will also be a way to build community spirit," she said. "Sometimes, we, as village officials, don't hear about things until they are coming to a head. Maybe this committee will be a way to help avert bigger problems."

Once formed, the committee will meet every couple of months to discuss issues brought forth by the representatives which will then be brought before the full village board.

"Getting the residents more involved in their government is a win-win situation for everyone," Castaneda said.

For information call the village offices at 637-5300.

December 4, 2005