To the editor:

Over the past several weeks, I have heard, in response to recent City Commission decisions, many variations on a theme that I once saw on a sign, which read somewhat to the effect, “It’s we the people, not we the commission.” I am confused by this sentiment, as it was “we, the people” who chose the five individuals on the City Commission to represent us. In a representative democracy that is how it works — for better or for worse.

Apparently, many people think it currently is for worse as can be seen by the number of individuals who have been complaining about — or even worse, ignoring — the fireworks ban. How many laws do our congressmen and women in Washington, D.C., enact that we do not like? Do we ignore those laws? Since when do we get to pick and choose the laws that we want to follow?

Based on the amount of firework noise that I heard in my neighborhood in the week leading up to July 4, I am amazed at the example that the adults in Lawrence are setting for our youths — if you don’t like a law, then just ignore it. What do such responses teach our young people?

Rather than complaining that the public didn’t get to vote on something and/or flouting the ordinances with which you disagree, attend the City Commission meetings. After all, how can our council members know what the citizens want if we don’t let them know?

Jennifer Floray Balke,

Lawrence