To the Editor:
In an effort to promote transparency in governance, and secure the rights of the citizens of Rutland, a lengthy and factual document was transmitted on June 28, to Ms. Kiera Berdinner, program officer with the U.S. Department of State-Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, PRM Admissions, in Washington, D.C.
Prepared by Rutland First—a grassroots citizen group in Rutland and using factual information from an initial Freedom of Information Act directed to the City of Rutland and Office of the Mayor—the document clearly defines the dereliction of duty, and disregard for the rules and regulations of the City of Rutland, State of Vermont and U.S. Government in secretly attempting to commit the people of Rutland to a long and complicated refugee resettlement program without their knowledge.
The document contains no suggestion of prejudice, bigotry or refusal to accept what goodness might come about from a federally sponsored resettlement program. Rather it recognizes the need for public discussion, the approval of the Board of Alderman, the consideration of the various departments of the city and a proper assessment of the resources and potential of the City of Rutland to adequately execute such a program.
It is well documented that all of the aforementioned parties were deliberately and secretly omitted from any discussions that resulted in the input to, completion of and transmittal of (Rutland) Mayor Louras’ application to VRRP, USCRI and the U.S. Department of State.
If successful, the report will encourage the U.S. Department of State-Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration to halt the process until due diligence and proper governance and citizen input are allowed.
Fred Haas
Rutland First
Rutland
