Community Meeting

At the meeting, one neighbor was shouting. “I’ve had enough,” he said. “This neighborhood has too many potholes.” Other people clapped. They agreed with the neighbor. There were potholes.

“We can’t fill in all the potholes until we know where they are,” said the Alderman. “Please tell me when you see one. Then I promise I will get it fixed. I need you to help me to help your community.”

“What about the snow plowing,” a woman asked. “No one came to plow our street. We had to do it ourselves. We voted for you. You need to help us.” The Alderman answered. He said, “There was so much snow, that we could not get to the side streets quickly. But they are going to try to do a better job next time. We know this is important. We will fix it.”

“Let’s talk about progress,” the local librarian said. “Are we going to get the new library building?”

“I think we need a new park, first,” said a parent.

“A library is more important than a park,” she answered.

“No, it’s not. You’re wrong. You’re thinking about yourself.”

“Wait, now,” said the Alderman. This ward belongs to everyone. And both will help. We need the park. We need the library. And we need more. I’m trying to get it all. But we’re starting with the library.We don’t have space for the books in the old one. We need a computer area, too.”

“I’m angry,” the parent said. “I wanted the park first. I’m going to vote for someone else to be alderman next time.” 

“Let’s all work together,” a teacher said. “This is about what we all need and want. We have a great community. Let’s work together.” Everyone agreed. They clapped loudly. “That is what we need to do,” said the alderman.