To the editor:

Hard to believe the new town council has had three monthly meetings since being sworn in and the all-consuming topic has been a flag policy they created. 

Town business as we know it has seemed to have taken a back seat to this new flag policy. Personally, I feel the only flag to fly at town hall should be the American flag. That being said, let us remember those star and stripes provide us with a blanket of freedom. The town council should welcome every group to fly its flag or its banner not just the ones that fit into their agenda. The other side is we fly no other flags or banners with the American flag and let it stand alone on the hill in all its glory.

It’s my understanding Councilman Brier took the lead on this policy. Mr. Brier, if your objective was to create division in the community congratulations, I think you have succeeded. In the years I have lived in town, I have not seen such division over an issue or such a waste of council’s time and energy. There are 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island — maybe we should look to see how they handle the issue. Clearly what we are doing is not working.

There will be more applications to fly different flags. Some will be granted, and some rejected and sooner or later we may have a lawsuit. It is in the best interest of the town council and the people of Barrington to revisit this issue.

Sincerely

Michael Mangione

Barrington