A win is a win, but we also need reform in how city's legal department operates

Congratulations, Harrison Thorp on your tenacity to pursue the injustice laid upon you and your newspaper, The Rochester Voice by Terrance O'Rourke, legal council for the City of Rochester, regarding the NH Right To Know Law.

Sitting back and pondering this decision handed down by the superior court, brings up a particular tactic or scenario that Attorney O'Rourke seems to employ. Add words, subtract words, twist words take out of context words on the taxpayers of Rochester's dime.

In the end, what public benefit and good was derived from these egotistical stunts? Nothing except wasted time and money where the efforts of city staff and resources could have been better spent. Another bloody nose, black eye or bruise that does not push forward the best of what this city has to offer and is truly about. What is the goal or objective? Is someone trying to make a name for themselves? Who does he answer to? Who gives him permission to advance these humiliating stunts using the good name of the City of Rochester? Let a little common sense prevail and accept the superior court decision.

What am I referring to? In addition to this debacle regarding entitlement of the Right To Know Law, there is the RAMA court case, and the almost overlooked part of their name...."mechanical association". When that failed, who dreamed up challenging their 501c3 standing? Look a little further. There is the oath of office debacle with our Ward Clerk in Exile, human and the recently discovered secret lawsuit with our county Registrar of Deeds! One cannot help but see a pattern emerging. these conflicts stem from the legal department, not necessarily all from city council or other departments. Is this just a chilling smoke screen to hide other issues and problems. A smoke screen wafting before the billowing forest fire actually erupts?

So where do we go from here? Will the next bold move be to challenge the words

- Individual
- Resident
- Inhabitant
- Member
- Civilian
- National

Each term carries a slightly different connotation depending on the context.
I hope I have not given him ideas!

Perhaps now is the time for another few words to the city manager, employ the same work and accountability standards to the legal department as you do to the city departments. That means a monthly public report which provides transparency and accountability from the infamous legal department. In addition, please do not waste our city resources in this type of appeal. Use these resources to better the city.

In closing, thank you Harrison for the work you undertake. NH is "live free or die". Our government is suppose to be open and accessible and this chapter reinforces the NH way. Freedom of the press is essential. And I will end with your quote Harrison, "That government is best which governs least-Henry David Thoreau"

Susan Rice is a longtime resident of the City of Rochester.