To The Editor: Election Preview

I have participated in town government in one-way shape or form for well over (20) years. When it comes to elections, we as a community need to be certain that those seeking our votes will serve in a responsible manner commensurate with the requirements of the office they were elected to.

Party affiliation is irrelevant, however what does matter is the individual who is willing or in some cases not willing to complete the term to which they were elected.

For me, a complete term means attendance at all meetings. It is understood that in some cases absences can’t be helped due to a valid reason. But participation and voting on issues is very important. That includes Executive Sessions.

Executive Sessions involve discussion on employee matters, contract negotiations, legal consultations etc. Having served in this capacity before I had consulted with the Ethics Commission when items discussed involved or potentially could involve family members. The ruling from Ethics was that I should only refrain from voting on budgetary issues that I would personally benefit from financially. Otherwise, it is ethical to speak and subsequently vote. Given my disclosure to ethics of family ties, they said I was free to participate and in the event of uncertainty, ask to table the item and check with them again. It did not stop me from participating in executive sessions.

When the Board of Selectmen is left to (4) members participating in executive session matters there is the chance that matters could result in a tie vote resulting in a waste of time and money. We elected 5 selectmen and five members should participate in meetings as well as executive sessions. The selectmen shouldn’t ever risk not having a quorum. Should any of the remaining members be absent, work does not get done. This type of behavior only serves to delay and could consequently cost the town money. As we all know Legal Fees are expensive. Follow the expenditure and you will see just how much legal fees are costing Seekonk. Actions can be delayed whereby implementing policy could be affected. This is clearly irresponsible behavior by certain selectmen and should not be tolerated any more.

The registered voters of the Town of Seekonk must look at each candidate and decide. If seeking re-election, has the incumbent attended many of the required meetings, including Executive Sessions? Has the incumbent researched items and voted according to his/her own findings or did they “go along to get along”? Has the incumbent served you well in what you see for the future of Seekonk? Has the incumbent misled the public with incorrect information?

If new to the ballot, are they willing to sacrifice family and personal time to serve? Will they do the research necessary to make informed decisions? Will they ATTEND every meeting as needed and conduct our business on our behalf diligently? Will they work for the betterment of the Town of Seekonk? This is my expectation.

These candidates/incumbents will get my vote. Others will not.

Thank you,

Doreen Taylor, Seekonk