More on Access to Government Records and Meetings

We have posted our belief that the Select Board Work Sessions that are now held on Mondays at 9:00 AM are in violation of the RSA 91-A.  We also have printed Sandra Coleman's opinion that the location of the meetings does not allow for handicapped access. The same is true of the Water and Sewer and Electric Department Meetings. 

The RSA places the public's right to know and the public's right to free access above the needs and desires of public officials.  The RSA does not include language like "whenever possible," or "when finances allow."  Monday morning maybe good time for the Select Board to meet with the department heads, and the conference room at the town hall maybe a good place for the their meetings.  There is no question that the work session was highly productive and helped to make the Monday night meeting very successful.   But,  the Monday morning work sessions limit public access.  Perhaps, the board and members of the public can find a time and place that works well for everyone.  The Utilities meet at the end of the work day, but they, too, need to find a place that is accessible to everyone.  Perhaps the Booster Club might be a good meeting place once the repairs are made.