Opinion: Bellefonte residents deserve a government that respects the law, values transparency
The recent actions of the Bellefonte Borough Council have sparked a significant outcry, and rightly so. On Aug. 5, the council passed a resolution that fundamentally undermines the public’s right to participate in local governance. However, the true issue lies not just in the resolution itself but in how it was passed — an act that directly violates Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act.
The Sunshine Act, particularly Section 710.1(a), mandates that the public must be given a reasonable opportunity to comment on issues that are or may be before the board before any official action is taken. This law ensures transparency and public involvement in government decisions. Yet, the Bellefonte Borough Council, led by Borough Manager Ralph Stewart, Council President Kent Bernier, and Councilwoman Barbara Dann, blatantly disregarded this requirement. They pushed through the resolution without allowing any public commentary, effectively silencing the voices of those they are supposed to represent.
This violation of the Sunshine Act is not just a procedural misstep; it is an affront to the democratic principles that form the foundation of our local government. The manner in which this resolution was passed — without notice or the opportunity for public input — constitutes a serious breach of public trust. It also potentially violates the First Amendment’s redress of grievances clause, which is designed to protect citizens’ rights to petition their government and express concerns.
What makes this situation even more alarming is the apparent motivation behind these actions. During the meeting, Bernier admitted that he had received 94 emails from concerned constituents, which he seemed to dismiss as an annoyance. This comment, coupled with the council’s actions, suggests that these new rules were implemented not for the benefit of public order but to stifle dissent and shield the council from criticism. When public officials view feedback from their constituents as an inconvenience, it is a clear sign that they are unfit for office.
The residents of Bellefonte deserve better. They deserve a government that respects the law, values transparency, and welcomes public participation. The actions of Stewart, Bernier and Dann, in knowingly violating the Sunshine Act, cannot and should not be tolerated. These officials have shown a disturbing willingness to silence the very people they are supposed to serve, and for that, they must be held accountable.
It is time for the residents of Bellefonte to demand accountability. I call for the immediate removal of Stewart, Bernier and Dann from their positions. Their blatant disregard for the Sunshine Act and the democratic process represents a clear and present danger to our community.
Public service is a privilege, not a right. When officials fail in their basic duties, it is up to us, the people, to act. The time for action is now. Attend the next council meeting, voice your concerns, and stand up for transparency and accountability in our local government.