In response to the article posted on the web Jan. 30 “Change of government resolution in the air | Black Diamond.

“The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government.” – Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The United Nations’ invokes the fundamental principle of democracy, the will of the people; yet in Black Diamond the current city administration and some of the prior administrations and council members appear unable to accept the people’s choice and voice. They mock it and still attempt to undermine it as “only a few”.

Danny Westneat of the Seattle Times called what happened in Black Diamond “Democracy in Spades”.

Democracy isn’t always pretty, and sacrifices must be made, but it can be the catalyst for positive change if harnessed instead of being suppressed.

The November election of three new Council members was a referendum on the absolute power structure that is strangling the city, and it gave a mandate to those elected to 1) bring back open and transparent government of the people for the people and 2) to ensure that a balanced government structure is in place for the long-term as the city grows exponentially. It would be nice if the voice of the people were treated as news instead of delegated as a letter to the editor.

So, instead of finding multiple reasons why a change in government is bad, too expensive, and infers not in the best interest of the people; why not try and give a balanced news approach to the issue so not to sway a future election one way or another. Those with power or community influence have an opportunity to move the community forward, along with those currently in office that have the trust of the community.

It is only when we ask for grace, and we put community instead of ourselves first; when we compromise and work together that we will be able to bridge the differences and start the healing.

A change in government for the people by the people is a giant step in the right direction.

Cindy Proctor

Enumclaw