When Lakewood and Longmont had contentious elections reported on YourHub.com, I jokingly commented, "Is Lone Tree next? It starts with an L."

I didn't really mean it. Now I've gotten reports of unpleasant business regarding upcoming issues 2A, 2B, and 2C, proposing sales tax increases for a cultural center, new pools, and tunnels.

Personally, I don't mind e-mails, signs, mailings or flyers, no matter which side they're on. I've got a delete key and a recycle bin.

They can even poke fun or get inflammatory without giving me hives.

Disagreements over illegal or inappropriate sign placement mostly make me laugh. I don't particularly like anonymity, because my curiosity remains unsatisfied, translating to suspicion.

However, I have heard unconfirmed rumors of vandalism and that's not funny. I imagine the reported profanity scrawled on signs was committed by kids, distorting adult enthusiasm. What grown-up would do that?

According to one source,a sign was defaced at a home whose owner recently suffered a personal loss. A good argument against thoughtless acts (besides the obvious legality and civility) is unpredictable impact.

Though neighbors, we cannot know everyone's life circumstances. What one person considers a prank to be brushed off, another could perceive as threatening and cruel.

I have a call in to Deputy City Manager Michelle Kivela about what I've heard, hoping it's not true. Still, I feel comfortable saying Lone Tree gains nothing with acrimony.

We are neighbors, even when we disagree.