Selectman Candidates Debate Issues

Selectman candidates Jim Lane and Pat Wojtas engaged in their first debate of the political season Tuesday on Tom Christiano's television show "Politically Incorrect."

The third candidate, Jerry Loew, did not attend due to a death in the family.

Christiano asked the candidates a number of questions, including how they would have voted on recent town issues.

Christiano asked how the candidates would have voted on a liquor license for the Meat House. Wojtas said she would have voted against allowing the liquor license, while Lane said he would have voted to allow the license.

"The ABCC (sided with) selectmen on the issue, so apparently that board felt the Board of Selectmen used the right logic and reasoning," she said.

Lane said he saw the liquor license as an "opportunity" for the town, but also said he didn't see why people couldn't pick up a specialty wine or malt liquor at the "high-end" butcher shop.

Both candidates said they support a "flat rate" tax classification in town, so businesses and residents will share the same tax burden.

"It's fair, the economy goes in cycles," said Wojtas. "As property values go up, everyone pays more. It all events out; businesses should not be penalized."

Lane agreed.

"Businesses don't use the trash service; they don't use the schools," he said.

Lane said he is also in favor of the local meals tax, though as the economy improves, selectmen may consider rolling it back.

"It has not affected business in town in a negative manner," he said. "But we can review it."

Wojtas said she would rather keep the tax, even if the economy does improve, to offset property taxes and provide relief.

"Most people don't even notice it," she said.

Lane said many people also come into town and contribute to the meals tax.

Selectmen will debate again Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel. That debate is sponsored by the Chelmsford Business Association.