Deer and uniforms

Two recent issues in Cape Girardeau have captured the emotions of our community: The school uniform proposal and the possibility of urban deer hunting.

The debate on both of these issues is healthy. That people are talking, arguing their points, delving into the issues and petitioning their government is what you would hope and expect of a free society.

The tone of some of the rhetoric, though, is concerning.

Some, but not all, of the people involved in the process are getting more defensive, and personal, than need be.

Because someone has a viewpoint different from your own obviously doesn't mean that person is stupid or ignorant. Likewise, just because a government body votes in a way that is contrary to your belief, doesn't necessarily mean that it is railroading you.

You know what's worse than a government that doesn't vote your way on tough issues? One that doesn't address them at all.

The Cape Girardeau City Council and the Cape Girardeau School District have been relatively open in their processes on both of these issues. Neither one of these issues is easy. Decisions either way will disappoint many. Certain members of the community have made an argument that their voices were not being heard, so they began their own groups to give their viewpoints a stronger voice. Is this a great country or what?

It's the responsibility of the city council and the school board to listen to, and consider, all sides of the debate. It's up to them to represent the entire taxpaying community (not just the staff) and do what they think is best. These two issues are examples of why our small, local elections are so important. So many factors have to be considered before making important decisions, and we need solid, rational and thoughtful officials. These elected officials, no matter what they decide, will be ridiculed by a good portion of their voting public. That they subject themselves to this for little to no pay is truly commendable.

As voters and residents of our community, our role is to tell those elected officials how we feel. And it should be our responsibility to treat the opposition with the same respect we would give to a friend or family member. These are our neighbors. Let's treat them that way. We don't believe name-calling should be part of the debate.

Tonight, the school board will vote on the uniform issue. People who have already signed up will be given three minutes to share their views. The unofficial dress code committee will be among those in attendance and sharing their points. This opportunity is in addition to two other public hearings in front of the school district's official dress code committee. School board members attended those hearings.

At 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Osage Centre, the city will host a public hearing on the urban deer hunting issue. If you have a view and can't make the meeting, you can share your thoughts on the city's website.

We expect that the views shared at the meetings will be respectful and thoughtful. We hope the same respect will be shown in social media circles, online commentary and the blogosphere.

Overall, we're proud of the community that cares so much to get involved. And we're thankful for public officials that lend their ears to the community's voice, as loud as it is sometimes.