About the Candidate

Did not respond

Education

High school diploma and three years of college, no degree

Previous campaigns and elected office(s) held

None

Top three priorities

1) I’d like to see the town be more responsive to the taxpayers, especially in person. I’ve had a hard time getting answers to direct questions out of various department heads. When there is an answer it is either evasive or dismissive and rude.
2) I’m worried about rising property taxes. 3) I’d like to see the town be more business friendly, from existing business, to drawing in new opportunities.

Why are you running?

The select board has been stagnant, with lots of longtime members and little in the way of fresh ideas. The town needs to be more business-friendly, and get its priorities in line. It’s fine to want to preserve the past, or add new positions and programs. We’re making these choices at the expense of our needs. For example, our public works doesn’t have the salt it needs to keep the roads clear. We need to properly fund the basics (roads, police, fire and rescue) before we pursue other projects.

What is the biggest challenge facing your community? The biggest opportunity?

Challenge: Budgets, inflation and fuel prices. Beyond the control of anyone local, rising prices and especially fuel prices are stretching everyone’s budget right now. The town and school department are no exception.

Opportunity: The town’s community. From the volunteer firefighters, to the snowmobile club and recreational sports parents, there are so many small groups in town all working for the betterment of the town. These groups all make it an appealing place to live.

If you could change one thing about how your community functions, what would it be and why?

I’d like to see more clear and open communication on the ballot from the town to the taxpayers on how decisions made at the ballot box will impact the town. Instead of a simple “Selectmen Recommend Yes” on ballot issues, lay out the cost as well. Make both the benefit to the town, and the cost to the taxpayer, clear in the budget line. It’s hard to be informed on an issue when you’re not sure the expected cost and expected benefit.

Do you support more development in your community? Why or why not?

I’d like to see more business and more housing in town. The town of Monmouth is a great place to live. Finding a place to live here now is challenging, to live affordably is even more so. Well thought out growth is a must.