In response to Mike Proto’s letter to the editor, “Citizens are motivated to make change,” Bristol Phoenix, April 10, I offer the following for consideration.

Although I can appreciate Mr. Proto’s observation of the “well organized” and fund raising skills of a “group of citizens,” what I think is missing is the total disregard of what brought about this movement. The bottom line was the safety and well being of all attending the Fourth of July concert series and not just a few disgruntled citizens who did not agree with the decision.

I agree that effecting change can take place at the ballot box. I would hope that the current council members will have the courage, to what amounts to a subtle threat, simply say, “bring it on.” Let those well organized and “motivated” individuals, who do not agree with town policies or decision making, stand up and try to make a difference on their own at the next election instead of on social media. That will clearly reveal just how motivated and concerned they are about town policies. 

Let them step up to make the tough decisions that affect all citizens of Bristol and not just special interest pockets with only the concern of disrupting their annual Fourth of July routines.

Or better still, become a volunteer on the Fourth of July committee and learn and understand all that goes into this event instead of sitting on the sidelines and kicking back. And while you are doing that, think of those committee members, public works personnel, police and emergency response personnel, military men and women and the behind the scenes volunteers who do not get the opportunity to sit with their families and enjoy the festivities because they are all making it possible for you to do just that with your families.

Please keep in mind that you do not run for public office to make friends but to make difficult decisions that will certainly not make all concerned happy.

I look forward to seeing all the new names of potential candidates at the next town election and even better, a simple “thank you” to all those who certainly deserve it. Now that is what makes America great.

Paul J. Salesi
Bristol