Elizabeth A. Elmasian for Select Board

Dear residents of Seekonk,

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Elizabeth A. Elmasian.  After much consideration, I am announcing my candidacy for the Seekonk Select Board.

Seekonk is a very special place for me.  I grew up here and have made Seekonk my home because of its people, the neighborhoods and because I care about its future.  Seekonk has always been a community where people care for and look out for one another.  As a tight-knit community, our local government should conduct itself in the same manner on behalf of the residents.  There is an expectation that local government be just as thoughtful, honest, transparent, and most importantly fiscally responsible for all.  I am running because I want to ensure that Seekonk continues to grow but in a respectful manner that represents the interests of all residents and taxpayers while protecting the quality of life moving forward.

My formal education demonstrates the way I have purposefully steered my career.  I consider serving the people and helping others my greatest pursuit in life.  I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island, a Juris Doctor degree from Roger Williams University School of Law, and a Master’s in Education from Rivier University.  I am a self-employed attorney and a college writing instructor (also former high school teacher) at Bridgewater State University, Rhode Island College and Bristol Community College. 

I consider advocating for others my greatest strength.  In my legal practice, I work with individuals and families who need assistance navigating complex issues.  I educate and help people make the best decisions in very difficult situations that have real-life consequences.  What I do on a daily basis is very similar to that of the Selectmen.  The Board is there to inform, assist, and guide residents in making decisions that not only best serve the town but serve themselves as well.  Honesty, transparency, accountability and a willingness to listen are vital so taxpayers can make informed decisions on the complex and competing issues with which the town is faced year after year.  However, that isn’t always the case.  Residents often feel their interests aren’t being met or that there lies a hidden political agenda among some Board members themselves.  This is unacceptable.  The Board serves the people; the people do not serve the Board.  It is time for change and I am the change that is so greatly needed.  I appreciate the importance of listening, using careful judgment, applying fairness and above all accountability-especially when decisions affect people’s homes, families, finances and livelihoods.  I personally believe this all comes down to simply having respect for those you serve.

Imparting knowledge on to others is perhaps my second greatest strength.  Whether it’s working closely with students or advising people as to how they should proceed legally, offering insight and information to those in need brings me great satisfaction.  A clear example of this was the volunteer work I performed at our Seekonk Senior Center.  I volunteered my time to the members in need of information on estate planning and elder law matters.  I prepared legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies for a nominal fee.  I feel a great sense of respect and gratitude to our seniors; they are the cornerstone of this town.  Knowing that I was able to provide a small measure of peace of mind to those who sought advice was a privilege. 

I believe in an honest and open approach to service, grounded in a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, collaboration and respect for the people.   These principles are non-negotiable.  I make these commitments daily to those I serve and will do so for you.   

It is inevitable that, with time, comes change.  However, change does not have to alter the fabric of a tight-knit community.  I want Seekonk to be like it was and remain a place where families choose to settle, seniors feel secure, and future generations are proud to live.  I believe residents deserve a Board that is accessible, respectful, worthy and committed to earning public trust.  I possess all of these traits and would consider it a privilege to serve you.

I respectfully ask for your support and your vote in the April election. 

I would be more than happy to further discuss how my skills would be an asset to the town or answer any questions anyone might have.  I can be reached at elizabeth.elmasian@gmail.com to schedule a time to speak.