The power of responsible citizens to influence elected officials was clear during the recent debate in Jackson over fireworks. The Ward 2 alderman, Dave Reiminger, made an excellent point during last week's board of aldermen meeting when he said, "I wold love to see some of this effort used in a constructive matter for Jackson." He was referring the the 35 Jackson residents who showed up to voice their views on fireworks.

At the meeting, the board voted 7-1 to allow the continued use of certain fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. This overturned a 4-2 vote earlier this month that banned fireworks. The public outcry after the first vote was loud and pointed. Aldermen heard from dozens of constituents who wanted to keep the family fireworks tradition alive in Jackson.

Much of local government tends to operate with little citizen input at meetings, except when emotionally charged subjects like fireworks are discussed.

But most elected officials say they want input from citizens whose well-being and pocketbooks are often affected by the actions these elected officials take. Citizens can discuss issues with elected officials, serve on committees or even seek an elected post themselves. All of these are good ways to be involved.