I appreciate the Mercer Island Reporter article concerning the misbehavior at the city of Mercer Island and the article about the Mercer Island Community Council. I was disappointed that the first article took a swipe at Ira Appelman and his “Community Council” in an effort to marginalize his contribution to the community.

Democracy is not a clean or efficient endeavor. In Seattle and elsewhere, there is little interest in discourse — one is either with the “progressive” agenda or pushed aside by the majority. This is very unhealthy, and I applaud people like Mr. Appelman who seek to ensure open and honest government — something that occasionally falters at Mercer Island. Yes, it takes government time and resources, but what is more important in a democracy than citizen involvement? Too many believe that once representatives are elected, the citizens should step back and accept what comes.

There have been attempts recently to reduce citizen rights with respect to initiatives and access to government information. Instead of trying to discredit the efforts of people like Mr. Appelman, we should be grateful, regardless of one’s political views.

David McLaughlin