Re-elect Dick DeFreitas as your town moderator

I have known Chelmsford Town Moderator Moderator Dick DeFreitas for nearly 35 years. He is a fine individual, a former selectman and library trustee who is very involved in his community.

The moderator guides legislation through the Town Meeting. He must be familiar with town bylaws and has a difficult role balancing the citizens' right to be heard on an issue while trying to make the process efficient and accountable.

He must handle the questions, points of order, motions, amendments and challenges while keeping town business moving smoothly. Also, he must forge a good working relationship with elected officials, town staff, and Town Meeting representatives while remaining nonpartisan.

As a Town Meeting representative, I think Dick is a very good moderator and deserves re-election.

During his first term, he implemented electronic voting, appointed qualified Finance Committee members and a Moderator's Advisory Committee to update Town Meeting rules. He has the proven experience and leadership that voters should consider before casting their ballot on April 1.

I urge my fellow Chelmsford residents to vote for Dick DeFreitas for town moderator.

PAUL GLEASON

Chelmsford