To the Editor:

I am glad to learn that Don Russell is running again for the Topsham Board of Selectmen.

He has helped the town maintain fiscal discipline during this economic downturn without deep cuts to staff and services. Just as importantly, his level-headed approach has helped to maintain an atmosphere of civility and progress in town government whose influence extends well beyond the work of the board.

Don understands the need for continuity in implementing town policies. By continuity, I mean adherence to the stated goals and objectives of town plans, ordinances, budgets and other negotiated agreements that reflect community consensus and compromise.

This orderly and honorable approach to fulfilling town responsibilities inspires confidence within the business community and reassures voters and taxpayers that what the town has started and promised to do, it will finish.

A steady and responsible approach to the management of town government is good for economic development, because economic development doesn’t mean poor quality in town services. On the contrary, people and money tend to be drawn to communities that support a high quality of life, good transportation and other opportunities.

Don’s support for ’round-theclock emergency services in Topsham indicates that he understands the important relationship between public spending and private initiative in communities that prosper.

Don takes time to understand issues and the politics of a situation before he speaks. As chairman of the board, he has helped the other members of the board understand issues and to hear all points of view before a vote is taken. Don’s influence has contributed a great deal to making the Board of Selectmen productive and responsible during these last three years.

I hope you will support him again this election. A vote for Don is a vote for forwardlooking and intelligent town government.

Gary W. Fogg
Topsham