Don Bergmann — a longtime Westport volunteer, who as an RTM member was never afraid to voice his opinion (and back it up with facts) — has resigned from that body. He sent this letter today to his District 1 constituents:
I have resigned as one of your representatives on the Westport Representative Town Meeting. If anyone would like to read the letter of resignation I sent to RTM moderator Eileen Flug, please email me: donlbergmann@sbcglobal.net.
Suffice it to say for this communication, I have concluded that I can be more effective in addressing town, District 1 and constituent issues as a private citizen.
Don Bergmann
The major factor underlying my conclusion involves a neighborhood matter which, by reason of the reaction and advice given to me with respect to my conduct, I concluded that I would be uncomfortable in addressing that and similar matters as a member of the RTM.
I will continue to be engaged in town and citizen issues, but as a private citizen. That engagement will include District 1 concerns when asked, or on my own initiative. Some examples are the Compo Beach Improvement Committee efforts, a petition for a speed hump on Harbor Road, and planning and zoning activities, including actions of the Zoning Board of Appeals that trouble me.
I also hope to contribute to the Downtown Steering Committee efforts, to promote and improve our parklands and, most dramatically at the moment, to prevent the siting of a 120-foot cell tower at 92 Greens Farms Road. I expect also to express my concerns with our superintendent of schools and Board of Education.
Thanks to all.
Don Bergmann, Former RTM member, District 1