To the Voters!

California pioneered ballot initiatives to empower participatory democracy. These days, it is often used to opposite effect. City Council’s referral of medical marijuana to the voters (“New Pot Ordinance Approved,” 6/17/10, independent.com/ornone) revives the original intent; win, lose, or draw, we all win.

Kudos to our local elected officials for breaking the partisan logjam. Perhaps their example can be heeded in Washington!—Geof Bard, S.B.