In my mailbox I recently found the third in a series of slick political flyers entitled “Highland Highlights,” which purports to be “news for the 99%”—whomever they are. The flyer bears the masthead “Taxpayers United For Fairness,” which is abbreviated as “T.U.F.F.” They advertise their mission as “providing a local alternative voice for the majority of the citizens of Highland.” The flyer was filled with critical invective directed primarily at Supervisor Andy Boyer, with glancing shots taken at Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Larry Fishman and returning assessor Lori King.

What first interested me was trying to figure out who the so-called united taxpayers are, since the people or person who composed and circulated the flyer has not identified himself. As I read on, a significant component jumped out at me. These self-proclaimed united taxpayers uniformly attributed quotes and statements to anonymous sources. For example: there are two quotes from a “community member,” a quote from “another resident,” another from “one taxpayer,” and attributions to “a group of local businessmen and residents.” We also learn of complaints from “one audience member” and of the investigation by “this reporter,” who remains nameless. The only attributed quote comes from Charles “Chuck” Petersheim, who congratulates himself for “going solar.”

Well neighbors, it seems that the corrosive tactics emblematic of 21st century national politics have leeched into our community. The message is clear: a well-financed, anonymous and negative campaign by one or more people or groups with their own hidden agenda has taken root in Highland. It is my guess that “you ain’t seen nothin’ yet.”

I maintain that a participatory democracy depends upon an open and fair debate among those willing to stand up and be heard by the community, not by those hiding behind anonymous sources. T.U.F.F. obviously has a point of view, and is likely prepping for this coming November’s election. I urge the anonymous “united taxpayers” to have the courage to come out of the shadows and defend your position in the light of day. Should you wish to be taken seriously, you must stand up publicly and engage in the debate so we all may learn whether your proposals can withstand constituent scrutiny.

Let the debate begin.

Donald Derfner

Yulan, NY