Editor, The Smithfield Times:

In considering the candidates for Town Council in the upcoming election, we all must consider the future of the town and the direction we collectively want to carefully guide its measured growth. 

I personally know and support two of the candidates for Town Council with a focus on preserving the town’s historic character: Mary Ellen Bebermeyer and Bill Harris. Both of these candidates are intelligent, responsible and outstanding friends, neighbors and citizens of and in this town. Each in his or her own way voiced opposition to a “carte blanche” acceptance of the Grange proposal as originally presented. As a result, a number of changes were made that potentially lessen negative impacts associated with traffic and with too great a population density in the Historic District specifically, and the town in general. 

Mind you, they did not oppose the development per se, but instead, sought the facts. They voiced opinions that the development should be scrutinized carefully — not just rubber-stamped because of the Luter name. The Grange and other recently approved developments have far-reaching impact on our community, and the potential for unintended consequences cannot be offhandedly dismissed. 

I can say without hesitation that both Bill and Mary Ellen have the voice of the townspeople, and the best interest of the town, in mind and will be ardent supporters of responsible growth, with a focus on public engagement, due diligence and excellent stewardship of the taxpayers’ money.

Bill and Mary Ellen are among candidates supported by the Citizens for Responsible Leadership — a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in local government. The CRL also supports Mike Smith and Darren Cutler for their like-minded commitments to thoughtful leadership. 

Please vote — and by all means, please vote your conscience. I personally support these candidates and their commitment to citizen engagement, responsible leadership and measured growth balanced with historic preservation.

 

Joe Giltner

Smithfield