To the Editor:

I spent almost 30 years in various positions with the Boy Scout organization to fulfill the mission of preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices. To do the right thing even if nobody is watching. To not try to get away with something just because you can.

During my stint as Scoutmaster, I asked the troop: What would happen if a batter got a third strike but wanted another pitch? They all said that is against the rules, and agreed it is only fair if the rules are followed.

The town of Berne follows the rules of the New York State Freedom Of Information Law. The same cannot be said of the New York State Open Meetings Law.

The current board follows the footsteps of the previous board by ignoring the requirement to post online, prior to a meeting, all documents to be discussed during the meeting. This is stated in Public Officers Law Article 7 and applies to zoning and planning boards.

The town can get away with this because nobody is watching; there is currently no enforcement of the Open Meetings Law. These are easy rules. Be fair. Follow them.

Kenneth Guarino

Executive Board Member

New York Coalition For Open Government