Bob Hayes: Replace government games with respectful public engagement

Earlier, Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque was characterized as producer/director of a poorly received theatrical play surrounding the city’s application of a form-based development code.

Apparently, the play has been taken backstage. In the meantime, the mayor continues to reveal his interests in managing and participating in games. During his tenure, he has appeared to enjoy at least three games: Simon Says, Monopoly and chess.

As Simon, the mayor expects elected and appointed public officials to follow his lead in order to participate or to continue to play, i.e., not to be dismissed.

As if actually playing Monopoly, the mayor seems obsessed in placing houses and allowing three-story apartment buildings (thankfully, in lieu of hotels) almost anywhere. He has also demonstrated interest in assuming directive influence upon utilities and institutions, i.e., Auburn’s water district and school department.

Finally, the mayor oversees the ongoing game of chess between a group consisting of elected city officials and council-appointed board/committee members, and the expanding local public interest groups questioning and challenging the direction and means of decision making.

At all levels of government, the public must expect meaningful engagement and process. It is time for theatrics and games to be replaced with engaged, thoughtful and respectful public participatory government.

Bob Hayes, Auburn