New Britain herald., 1929-03-23
COUNCIL SERVICE
 REQUIRES ENERGY
Enthusiasm for Task Essential to
 Respected Leadership

Annually, when the term of some of the members of the common council expire and retirement is chosen in preference to another try at renomination and reelection, pub lie attention is directed towards the men who drop out and the records they leave behind them. During the year, unless matters of eXtraordi- nary import are before the council, comparatively little interest is dis played by the electors in the doings Of their representatives, but the end of their terms always tends to place them before the public, for a brief period at least
 Of the group whose membership ceases next month, Alderman Will liam H. Judd and Councilmen Clar- ence II. Maxon and John A. Larson were more prominent and active in council affairs than the others, the alderman having come before the public Immediately upon entering the council. while the two council men advanced steadily through their handling of committee chairman ships. Councilman MaXon was head of the important salary committee and Councilman Larson headed the committee on claims. the latter bringing 10 the position a method of Investigating all claims coming up for disposition that resulted in the placing of unlimited confidence in the committee, by the council as body. Councilman Maxon also was successful in having his committee reports adopted, an accomplishment not always credited to chairmen of the salary committee.
 Council membe frequently fall into a state of lethargy after short period Of service, attending meetings only when they feel so inclined, while others have perfect records year after year. Some who seek membership on certain committees lose interest in the matters referred to them and are satisfied to coast along the line Of least resistance, leaving the work and unpleasant features Of the committee assign ments to someone else. Veteran council members are not slow in de- termining the abilities and qualifica- tons of the newcomers. and as the latter become acquainted with the routine and develop a better grasp Of municipal affairs, they advance in the esteem and respect of the others.
 Councilman Larson often made personal inspections Of places fig uring in damage claims. going out at night, on Saturday afternoons, and even taking time off from his place Of employment, in order to acquaint himself with conditions and place himself in better position to weigh the testimony coming to the committee from claimants and wit nesses. Councilman MaXon encour- aged the members of the salary com mittee 10 visit the various depart ments in city hall and observe the work Of petitioners for salary in crcases. He always contended that committee members would be better able 10 defend their findings if ques- tioned in the council. when in a po- sition to speak from personal obser- Saton.
 The history of the common coun- Gil has numerous instances of un- selfish service by members who were eyer willing to devote their time and energy to the city's welfare. Some of these members continued in the service of the city for years after their connection with the council ceased. by accepting places on com- missions. but a number Of others were never heard Of in official ca pactes at the conclusion of their council service.