Once again, Camden's engaged citizens are offering petitions, this time on the issues of having a local police chief and the paid parking program. I closely reviewed the Select Board April 7 packet that included town attorney William Kelly's thorough analysis of the legality of moving these petitions to a town meeting vote. 

Although not required, I agree that giving residents the opportunity to weigh in on whether we want a full time, resident police chief is important for making our voices heard on this very important issue. A vote will be helpful when crafting future plans regarding public safety. Cleary, local control of our police department is important to many residents, including myself. 

I fully support NOT having a town vote on the issue of paid parking. Paid parking is clearly in the Town Manager's and Select Board's purview, so a vote is neither necessary nor binding. Furthermore, it seems to me that many of the loudest voices around maintaining a fully staffed, local police force are the ones most opposed to paid parking.

I would like to understand how residents propose to pay to maintain this force in the future without increasing taxes. Seasonal paid parking is a reasonable way to generate funds without further burdening the taxpayers.

Most towns have paid parking, Camden residents will benefit from being allowed limited free parking, and we will diversify our tax base. People will not stop visiting Camden because of the minimal burden of contributing to the cost of maintaining these spaces and the kiosks are no more of an eyesore than potholes, trash cans, and overhead utility lines.

Free parking is not free!

Karla Doremus-Tranfield lives in Camden