Open government – and the rule of law – still apply in Hartford.

It was a close call.

Members of the town’s Board of Selectmen wanted to change the way several warrant articles would be decided. Selectmen had proposed voting on at least six warrants by secret ballot. Normally, an open vote is taken during town meeting.

After a late-night consultation, the selectmen reversed course.

According to the Maine Municipal Association, making the switch to a secret ballot would require a vote during open meeting. We don’t believe there was any nefarious intent to circumvent the law. It was just a bad idea.

Open meetings to discuss lengthy lists of warrants can be tiresome and turn off all but the most dedicated voters. But these meetings are the foundation for the town-meeting form of government, which demands that business be conducted for all to see.

Hartford will hold a special town meeting Nov. 20. Thankfully, it will be open for all who wish to participate.