To the Editor:
In the article of August 19 regarding the August 11 meeting of the Tisbury-Oak Bluffs joint committee, formed to study regionalization of services, [Tisbury-Oak Bluffs committee, fishermen clash over consolidation“] Times writer Steve Myrick omitted the comments of former shellfish committee member Donald Billings. He also omitted the comments of shellfish committee member Mark Landers.
The committee chairman was 45 minutes late. The committee members did not introduce themselves. There were several points that were not in order. These points showed disrespect to the people who attended this meeting.
Eleanor Beth is a very nice person and has much experience that she is willing to contribute. However, the comment she made referring to reciprocal fishing between the towns shows that she has not educated herself on this subject.
It is my understanding that this study is being made to save money. It is also my understanding that any reccomendations will then be voted on the floor of our town meetings.
When committee members make comments that threaten a way of life, and the livelihoods of commercial fishermen, without having first informed themselves of the law and facts, it is an insult. How do you expect cooperation?
Michele Jones
DC/MV Fish Association
Oak Bluffs
