America was founded on the idea of being a government for the people, by the people. However, when is the last time a U.S. or state representative or a council member has asked the people's input on how to vote on a bill being pushed in a committee? I can't think of a time when that has ever happened.
Since I decided to run for the Kahului seat on the Maui County Council, several people have told me that they don't even vote because the politicians never actually listen to them anyway. I do see that to a degree, but I have a plan to throw that reason in the trash. My plan is to create a website or a blog that is designed for the people of Maui to give their input on county issues. For example, if the creation of a bypass to Lahaina is being discussed by the council, I will post the pros, cons and how many tax dollars it will cost. I will give my opinion on the issue. Then I will create a poll for the people of Maui to vote on it. I will vote the way the people tell me to. How is that for government by the people?
For more details on my ideas and plans, go to mauih2o.com and www.gopmaui.com.
Erin McLaughlin
Kahului
