Letter from Carol Waller

Bauer’s Vote Was Brave

When I see courage and bravery on display, I have to admire it. My father was an Iwo Jima Marine and also served during the Korean War. Later in life he ventured back to Iwo and took his two grandsons. It wasn’t until then that we learned about his personal bravery and courage. His unit earned the Presidential Unit Citation and he was awarded the Bronze Star. So, I believe in honoring our veterans. I certainly honored my Dad.

Personal courage and a brave stand was exhibited by Village Trustee Hanna Bauer this week with her vote on the controversial banner proposal. Hanna has expressed her reasoning and it is sound, but she could have also decided to vote the other way if her thoughts were of that direction. This was a very complex and emotional issue.

However, Hanna’s courage led to her brave decision, brave because no matter how she voted or even if she was absent or abstained, she knew some people would be angry. She is the only trustee that has a business in the village that could be at risk. She knew that whatever her position, she could potentially lose customers because people are so emotionally polarized now that they let their emotions distort their reality and take vengeance out on those they perceive do not go their way.

Bravery is acting in the face of adversity and to do that, it takes courage. I know, because when I was a public servant there were times I faced decisions that could adversely affect my business, but I had to put the needs of the village and residents first. That is what public servants do.

It is also probably the reason there are so few business people in small towns serving in the public sector. They are afraid of the impact to their small businesses because of the current level of polarization. Small business is tough and many feel the risk of serving is just too much.

So I feel for Hanna, I understand the stress this has put on her, but I admire her because of her actions, bravery and courage.

I am proud and honored that we have people like Hanna Bauer on our Village Board, a true public servant that puts the good of the village above her personal interests.

Carol Waller
Mayor, Village of Cooperstown (retired)