I would like to thank Rich Livingston for his many hours of tireless work on behalf of the city of Auburn during his tenure as an Auburn councilor. I know from personal experience the depths of his commitment and personal sacrifices he has had to make to be a councilor and serve his city. From the bottom of my heart, I say sincere thanks.

I must disagree with Rich, however, when he states that there have been some “inappropriate” council members in the last two years (Perspective, Oct. 17). Thank God that the United States of America is a participatory democracy where we still are allowed to have elections and some dialogue on the issues. I am not sure that an official can be accurately called “inappropriate” when elected in a popular vote by the people.

Auburn, despite its recent history, is a democracy, not a monarchy, and more, not less, public participation is needed, including, in my opinion, citizen approval of large capital improvement projects.

Councilor Robert Mennealy,

Auburn