We learned this week that four members of the Harvard Ambulance Service have resigned, and that there are threats of more resignations. This is an unfortunate turn of events.

The resignations appear to be in protest of the selectmen’s decision to pursue billing for ambulance services without putting the question before the townspeople for a vote. We understand there are deep feelings about this issue among squad members. But we don’t understand why dedicated ambulance volunteers would resign over it, leaving citizens in the lurch with diminished ambulance coverage.

If ambulance squad members feel strongly that the citizenry should have an opportunity to vote on the issue, they do have the option of initiating a citizens’ petition to be brought before voters at the next Town Meeting. Wouldn’t this be a more effective means of protest?