Voting in Denton County
We voted yesterday in Denton County, and Dallas County could learn from the process Denton County elections use. The primaries are held together.
When we checked in, iPads were used. We were able to choose which party’s ballot we wanted on a button, no words needed.
The poll workers were professional, busy and really didn’t have the time to judge or comment if they wanted to.
Privacy protected, only the election workers were aware of our choice, not the other voters in the room. For those who are concerned about their privacy, Denton County has the answer for efficient and cost-effective elections while protecting voters.
Opinion
Perri Brackett, Lewisville
Privacy is gone
Re: “People are not happy — Dallas County’s decision to hold separate primaries means less privacy for voters,” Tuesday news story.
A quote from this front page story: “Strips of red and blue tape run across the floor, guiding voters in different directions before they even reach the check-in area. The arrows lead to distinct tables where election workers sort them based on their party ballot.”
Then, the voter walks down the red or blue strip and goes to the specified machine to vote for either Democrats or Republicans. What are independents supposed to do? Why can’t you vote for some Democrats and some Republicans on the same ballot?
Voter privacy is gone forever. If this nonsense isn’t against the law, it certainly should be.
Lois Cossack, Celina
Let voters decide
The Dallas City Council is facing one of the most momentous decisions in its public service — whether to be builders or destroyers.
The decision regarding Dallas City Hall will shape its legacy. The details may not be remembered in years to come. What will be remembered is whether they decided that an iconic building will be razed for an unknown future without putting it to voters.
This decision is not just about City Hall. It’s about the message to our residents. We all feel the frustration watching neighborhoods torn down house by house to build white boxes that all look alike. We see historic homes being demolished without any fight or remorse.
It seems as if decisions from past councils don’t matter, only the opportunity for some cash. In this case, we don’t even know what the true opportunity is!
This should be a decision made by the voters of Dallas. It is their building. It is our building. There is not even an offer on the table but a pressure to capitulate without any negotiation.
We must know whether this move will actually improve services for our residents. There is no evidence that this will make life better in Dallas for anyone.
Let us decide. It would be shameful if the council’s legacy is one of opportunism and destruction. Be remembered for building community instead of destroying it by denying voters the chance to decide.
Jaynie Schultz, Dallas
Tips to help rural Texas
Re: “Rural Texas needs champions, not loyalty tests — We need serious legislating to address problems we are facing,” by Suzanne Bellsynder, Thursday Opinion.
Bellsnyder’s request for state and university support for rural veterinary care is an excellent idea. There might be a way to improve its odds for success.
Contact local veterinarians, if you have them, and see if local high school and junior college students are showing an interest in veterinary care. These students already understand rural needs, and occasionally working with a local veterinarian might enhance that interest.
Consider establishing a fund to support those interested in their college education with a veterinary “co-op” program to help them learn on-the-job. Offer them an opportunity to start their careers in the local community.
And finally, as she suggests, vote for candidates who have legislative views that support rural communities.
Ray Johnston, Heath
Save Big Bend
Re: “Border wall building plan sparks outrage — Construction would cut through West Texas’ Big Bend National Park,” Feb. 21 news story.
Regarding this story, I am totally opposed to scarring Big Bend National Park with a massive wall. We have the technology to detect border crossings electronically. Heck, we had it 55 years ago when we were air-dropping sound sensors on the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
I’m sure the technology has advanced greatly since then. Let’s use it!
Bruce Bleakley, Dallas
Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the trailblazers who have shaped our nation through their courage, innovation and leadership. From securing the right to vote to breaking barriers in every field, women have made history.
Let’s celebrate their achievements and keep empowering future generations of women!
Paul Bacon, Hallandale Beach, Fla.
A high Atmos gas bill
I just received the largest Atmos gas bill I have ever gotten. In looking back through my utility records, it shows the gas bill steadily going up, up, up. Even in the summer months, when I only use a gas hot water heater and cooktop, my bill is always at least $50. A couple of years ago, I actually used 15 more centum cubic feet in a winter month for a cost of $36 less.
Included with my bill this month is a proposed rate change for city of Dallas customers that says the proposed increase to my monthly bill is $11.25. I don’t know what entity or organization approves these increases, but I certainly hope they are reviewed carefully as to justification.
It’s hard to imagine why this utility has a need to dramatically increase prices. After all, Texas is the largest producer of natural gas in the U.S. There’s no shopping for a better deal because they are the only provider.
Maybe the Watchdog can shed some light on this.
Donna Gregory, Dallas
We welcome your thoughts in a letter to the editor. See the guidelines and submit your letter here.
If you have problems with the form, you can submit via email at letters@dallasnews.com