Ryan Taylor George Michaels

Berwick Select Board

About the Candidate


Father, disabled veteran, and advocate. From military service to civilian leadership roles, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people, solving problems and strengthening communities.

Education


B. S. in Business Administration; Associate Degree in Logistics. Served in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, separating as a staff sergeant following a service-connected injury.

Previous campaigns and elected office(s) held


None.

Why are you running?


I’m running because service has always been at the center of my life. Whether in the Army, Air Force or civilian leadership roles, I’ve always been drawn to helping people overcome challenges and find solutions. My experiences have shown me that too many people feel unheard by the systems meant to serve them. I believe local government should be transparent, accountable and responsive to its residents. I want to bring that spirit of service to Berwick.

Top three priorities


My top priorities are protecting individual liberty, increasing transparency in local government and ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I believe government should focus on its essential responsibilities while respecting the rights and freedoms of its citizens. Just as important, I want residents to feel heard, informed and involved in decisions that affect their lives and our community.

What is the biggest challenge facing your town/county? The biggest opportunity? OR What is the biggest challenge facing your area’s schools? The biggest opportunity?


Berwick’s biggest challenge is balancing growth while preserving the character, independence and close-knit community that make our town special. The biggest opportunity is ensuring residents remain actively involved in shaping that future. By encouraging civic engagement, supporting local businesses and planning responsibly, we can grow without losing the values that drew many of us here in the first place.

If you could change one thing about how the town/county functions, what would it be and why? OR If you could change one thing about how your local schools function, what would it be and why?


I would improve communication and transparency between town government and residents. Throughout my life, I’ve seen how trust grows when people feel heard and respected. Residents deserve clear information about decisions, spending and projects before they happen, not after. Open communication leads to better decisions, stronger community involvement and more accountable leadership.

Do you support more development – i.e. more housing construction and business building in your town/county? Why or why not? OR Do you think the state government is too involved in local schooling? Not involved enough? The right amount of involved? Explain your answer.


I support responsible development that respects property rights, community input and Berwick’s unique character. I generally favor reducing unnecessary barriers that prevent people from improving their property, starting businesses or creating housing. At the same time, growth should be planned thoughtfully to ensure infrastructure, public safety and community needs are addressed. We can welcome opportunity without sacrificing what makes Berwick home.