I want to thank the Homer City Council for providing an opportunity for people to voice their views. I know it is not always easy for any of us to hear views that differ from our own, but free speech is a critical part of any democracy.

As many who testified at the last meeting stated, we love our town and believe in caring about one another. I am very glad this is a value that binds us, regardless of our other views.

Four hours is a long time to hear many viewpoints, but I applaud the Homer City Council for encouraging people to speak their minds. May we as a community continue to support free speech as our city council so gracefully modeled.