Choose Chelmsford Celebrates Recall Defeat

Applause got louder and louder at the Elks as Stefani Bush received calls from each precinct and announced the results from the recall election, revealing a win for Choose Chelmsford.

The win means selectmen will keep their positions in town.

“This is just wonderful,” said Bush, Choose Chelmsford co-chair. “I’m looking forward to rebuilding our community to be stronger than ever.”

“The community coming together to fight the recall is a perfect example of what Chelmsford is," said Joanne Stanway, an organizer of Choose Chelmsford. "What Roland (Van Liew) tried to do is not Chelmsford. I see this whole effort as the best this town has to offer.”

Bill Nolan, a Chelmsford resident who showed up at the Elks to support Choose Chelmsford, agreed that the recall really brought the town together. 

“People from different sides of the political spectrum all came out to vote against the recall,” said Nolan.

And though the supporters of Choose Chelmsford were upset that a recall had to even happen, everyone seemed grateful that the issue was over.

“I’m relieved,” said Chelmsford resident Arline Wood, “Now let’s move on.”

Last night, Richard McClure, a recall supporter said he was also ready to move on.

"The voters have spoken, I'm obviously disappointed with the result but I certainly accept it and it's time for the town to move forward and leave this chapter behind us," he said.