Perspective

Access Dover

by Yvonne Takvorian Saville, Esquire

It isn’t hard to get caught up in the excitement of both the political and media frenzy that accompanies a presidential election year. Every day, I find myself scouring the paper, searching the internet and scanning the television to find out what news worthy event has occurred within the Democratic primary or the current Republican administration. Now before you think this article will give you the inside track on any fantastic political observations, let me warn you that the purpose of this article is not to discuss politics per se, endorse any candidate or party affiliation, or even to comment on any particular political event or legislation. So what do I have left to discuss? Since we often hear about the negative aspect of politics, with rising intensity all through the presidential campaign, I thought I would share some positive experiences (yes, positive!) I have recently had with our local government; as most of you know this is the political body we as attorneys have the most connection with and potential influence upon.

I have always been interested in politics and even minored in it at the University of Delaware. Other than helping in a few campaigns over the last ten years or so, my involvement has unfortunately been minimal. However, that began to change about two years ago. Now, I do not consider myself to be “politically savvy,” nor do I maintain to have a wealth of political knowledge. In fact, my first foray to Legislative Hall was not until last year when I sat in on the House debate of a fairly controversial bill. It was interesting and educational to hear the exchange of information between our legislators, and the proponents and detractors of the proposed bill, as they discussed the merits, or lack thereof, of that bill. To political neophytes like me, it was inspiring to witness the ardor with which the advocates made their case whether they supported or opposed the legislation. If you have never seen our Legislature in session, you should! While many of us are probably aware of the current issues facing our local legislative body, we are so fortunate to live in a small state that affords us the opportunity to be heard and felt in Dover.

Recently, I have experienced first hand the prompt accessibility our local politicians allow us. Getting face time with our senators and representatives is not exclusive to lawyers or lobbyists. It is something I believe our legislators encourage and expect from their constituents. For instance, my district representative, like others, has a coffee hour every other week so that he can meet with and address the concerns of the residents. I know that he has also made it a priority to speak at various civic association meetings when requested, my own included. No issue is too small for him whether it is answering questions about a potentially dangerous intersection or offering solutions to the flooding of a neighbor’s backyard.

An old high school friend of mine also serves in the Legislature while maintaining a full time law practice and teaching at Widener. Again, my experience with her has been positive: prompt return of telephone calls and e-mails underlie a willingness to meet in person and address concerns in a timely manner. I think it is fair to say that this kind of accommodation is not limited to just these two individuals. I suspect that when Delawareans have found it necessary to contact their representative, they have likely encountered that same level of approachability that I have.

As I learn more about the intricate and engaging process of legislating, I take note of the great deal of time, energy and effort taken by our legislators to research, learn about and LISTEN to the pros and cons of proposed legislation. Many legislators will also solicit opinions directly from their electorate on proposals before making a final decision on how to vote. Many of you also give a lot of your time to the legislative effort to educate our representatives on issues and answer questions when raised. Although we will not always agree with every bill that is passed or defeated, it gives me great comfort to know that the decisions in Dover are being made following a thorough and deliberate review as those outcomes affect each of us.

There is a certain element of excitement to be a part of that dynamic process when our Legislature is in session. Of course, as lawyers, we are to varying degrees, “lawmakers” already, as that is the nature of our profession. I urge you however to get involved and access Dover by either helping a friend on a campaign effort, learning more about the candidates running for office, inquiring about the bills that will be presented to your government representatives, or taking a stand on an issue that is important to you. I know our elected officials appreciate all views whether presented over a cup of coffee, discussed in a town meeting or set forth in a letter or phone call. There are so many ways that we can contribute – let your government hear from you.

Return to March 2004 Table of Contents.