Politics & Government

Letter to the Editor: Strauss For Selectman

Resident Kevin Donaher supports the reelection of Selectman Matt Strauss.

 

Letter to the Editor

I am writing in support of Matthew Strauss for another term on the Swampscott Board of Selectmen. Matt was instrumental as the chairman of the Board in the recent hiring Mr. Younger as the next Town Administrator. I believe it will be a benefit to the town to maintain an experienced Board familiar with the current issues facing the town to provide consistency and direction for Mr. Younger as he takes over the ongoing business of the town.

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In addition, I believe the town is better served by having representation of board members from different precincts. Currently four of the five current Board members reside in precinct 5; the only member of the current Board that resides in a different precinct is Matt Strauss in Precinct 2. Since the challenger, Mr. Kessler, also resides in Precinct 5 there would be no representation from other precincts in town.

I believe there is a benefit to having representation on the Board of Selectmen of residents from different neighborhoods within the community. There is no question in my mind that there is the “other side of the tracks,” literally, that separates the quality of living for many of the working class citizens and elderly with limited finances residing in less affluent sections of town. While I do not mean to insinuate that this board or previous boards do not have the best interests of the town at heart, I do believe it’s important to have more representation from across the community to raise concerns that impact some residents that others may not be aware of.

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I believe Matt understands the issues that confront different neighborhoods and he has demonstrated his willingness to bring forward these issues in a fair and democratic way. His dedication and commitment to the job is admirable. As everyone knows, the time commitment of being a member of an elected Board or volunteer Board is substantial and many are thankful for those willing to step-up to make our town a better place for all.

It is for these reasons I urge residents to consider Matthew Strauss for another term on the Swampscott Board of Selectmen.

Kevin Donaher

28 Burpee Road 
Town Meeting Member. Precinct 3


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