Marcy,
I didn't say a ballot initiative *shouldn't* be undertaken unless we
have firm commitments. Only that our chances of actually getting it on
the ballot will be in jeopardy if we *don't* have a strong enough
commitment. There are benefits to be gained from circulating petitions
for a ballot measure even if it doesn't in the end make it onto the
ballot -- although we should make every effort to see that it does.
Before deciding which measure to go with, we were going to adopt a
method for making that decision. Since we discussed the possibility of
weighted voting based on how much money or how many signatures a person
is pledging, some people may be waiting to express their personal
commitments until it's determined how we will select a measure.
Therefore my recommendation is that the ExCom to adopt a method ASAP,
and if in doubt as to which method to adopt, seek further input or take
a poll, but do it quickly.
Choosing a ballot measure is a significant enough decision that I
would prefer to see the ExCom make a decision based on the results of
an online vote or "straw poll" (whether conducted on the basis of "one
person one vote" or otherwise) rather than just on the preferences of
the officers. It would be nice to say let's just wait and decide at the
next meeting, but such a delay would be costly.
Yours in liberty,
<<< Starchild >>>
Hi All,
I said to Phil (our resident Initiative Expert, along with
Starchild), that I would share my feelings about the Ex-Com stepping
in and picking an initiative, as was suggested at the last LPSF
meeting. I have been consistently speaking in favor of proposing an
initiative as means to place the LPSF name before the general
public. However, I have not perceived enough support (i.e., firm
commitment to either work or donate funds) for this project from our
activists. As Starchild has described, placing an initiative before
the voters is a sizable endeavor, and not a project that should be
undertaken without such firm commitments. Therefore, as a member of
the Ex-Com, my vote would be "none of the above." Obviously, this
vote does not prevent continuation of the discussion among those who
wish to proceed with this project. I would consider those brave souls
members of the newly created (I just created it) "Ballot Initiative
Committee." A request for a formal motion to refer this subject to a
special committee will be on the next agenda, if nothing else is
firmly decided before the next LPSF meeting. Hopefully, activists
who want to work on a ballot initiative will get together and make it
happen. Also hopefully, other activists will be working on plans for
the Pride Parade (in June, and their website is already up), the next
social event (great way to bring in more activists), the Juneteenth
Festival (I believe Mike Denny encouraged us to participate last
year), etc. It would be terrific if by the next LPSF meeting
everybody is ready to sign up for one of these, or other, activities!Regards,
Marcy
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