During the 2018 election cycle, much has been said about a lack of civility, bipartisanship, and discourse with today’s public servants. Even worse are displays of extremism by our elected officials on heated issues.

Unfortunately, this same sense of partisanship has trickled down into local politics. Recently, the Town Council signed numerous resolutions giving one-sided support to state/national partisan issues, concerning illegal immigration, public safety, guns, and global warming.

Simultaneously, the town council has used its authority to further push regulation on its citizens that take away freedoms, without making it a ballot measure for them to vote on. The biggest example would be the plastic bag ban that has yet to go into effect.

The town council’s job is to balance a budget, facilitate a strong economy, provide services, and hear municipal issues. As town councilor, I will put Bristol issues first and leave divisive issues to the media commentators.

Will Sousa Grapentine

Mr. Grapentine is a Republican running for Bristol Town Council.