To the editor:

From my perch on the side of Ames, I am often amused by the latest grab for power.

Students would be well-advised to consider all the issues on the ballot, if they vote in the municipal election. Voters in the November municipal election will be asked to ratify two changes in the way the library is governed.

First, voters will be asked to approve a change in the length of term of library trustees from six to three years, with the possibility of reappointment, if the mayor is pleased with you, if you have seldom challenged pending proposals and asked critical questions.

The library director has indicated that the change of terms is due to the lack of qualified people interested in serving on the board.

This is not true. Very qualified people have applied, some repeatedly, and been turned down by the mayor.

Second, voters are asked to give more duties to the library director, taking those duties away from the trustees.

Having duties invested in trustees who represent citizens, rather than in a hired director, seems to be the best form of checks and balances.

The second proposal appears to be a bid for power by the more recently arrived director, Art Weeks. Coincidentally, Mr. Weeks and perhaps the mayor as well have a Taj Mahal in mind, a new library with an expensive price tag.

Should he achieve that goal, he can move on to a larger town with an enhanced resume.

Representing the Iowa League of Municipalities, Ms. [Ann] Campbell testified before a legislative committee against a bill that would promote more women on city and county boards.

This was baffling. The bill, now law, had no penalties for noncompliance.

It may be appropriate for the City Council to reject some of Mayor Campbell’s appointments in order to remind her that a democracy requires moderation and balance, not conformity to a preordained agenda or idea of conforming behavior or the right image. Democracy is not tidy, indeed it can be messy.

Ames voters would be well advised to read the proposals on the ballot carefully.

Katherine B. Fromm is an Ames Resident