This picture doesn’t strictly show the opposition to the originally proposed $1.7 million Croydon school budget because opponents to the May 7 revote were urged to stay home in an effort to deny a quorum to settle the question.
In the context of the Croydon Town Meeting Day effort to slash the budget in half, it does, however, give an indication of how an active and vocal minority can take control of government from a less-active majority.
This budget conflict has been referenced to me numerous times through the years by people I have met at demonstrations, at the polls, and just going about their daily business, as a catalyst to re-engage with civic responsibility.
Most recently, Josh Stearns, a Hanover High School student, referenced the events in Croydon as part of his inspiration to apply for the first Vermont Youth Council.
He was accepted and will be one of 28 students to interact with the governor and legislature and give voice to issues important to those who cannot yet vote.
