Pomfret Supervisor Dan Pacos, subtly yet accurately, summed up the biggest difference between serving on municipal boards during a December meeting. Though the village of Fredonia is located within the town, it is a much different dynamic when it comes to discussion.

Pacos said of the Town Board, “We all respect and get along, and we generally agree.” He emphasized that when disagreements do happen, discussions are respectful.

That may have been directed at new Town Board member EvaDawn Bashaw, who took the seat held by Ann Eckman who resigned in September. Bashaw, who served on Fredonia’s Village Board, was there during trying times.

In fact, it is common for the Village Board meetings to become shouting matches. It is unfortunate but also a sign of frustrations that have mounted for years over a lack of attention to detail on water, finances and staffing.

Pomfret has not faced those troubles — today or in the past. That is a sign that the town is run more efficiently and has more effective partnerships.

Fredonia is attempting to move in that direction. No doubt, there will be tremendous pushback.