CANDIDATE LETTER: 'We Need to Bring Change With New and Fresh Ideas'

As submitted by Edward L Bigelow, candidate for Marlborough mayor:

It is an extreme honor and privilege to run for Mayor of Marlborough. I have undertaken that job and need you to vote for me Edward L. Bigelow.

The reason is we need to bring change with new and fresh ideas. The City has a need for more compliant affordable housing. There are several issues that lead to non-code compliant housing. We must resolve those housing issues by applying a proactive, efficient and compassionate management plan.

Marlborough has to develop a Public Transportation Plan. We have a City that is the heart of the Bio Tech belt of Gold. We work three active shifts of workers through out the City and some form of reliable Public transportation is necessary. Natural Gas fueled mini busses with bicycle racks are an option I would propose. We need to hear from you about how to tie the east and downtown with the west and have transportation around the west side. I will implement a system to support our three shift working City and take a few vehicles off the road with your help.

The Library as we know must change. We need to invest in the latest technology to expand computer services and internet access to a broader population. The Library needs space and organization for computers and electronics, media,books, newspapers etc. The new building needs to be located proximal to where it is now.

My history with building the new Central Fire Station has given me the experience we need to bring this project forward. We cleaned up a hazardous waste site, put a commercial building on the tax roles and built a new station that brightens up the entrance to Main Street . There are a few sites available but you will choose the site for me. I will get it built. The Pleasant Street Fire Station must remain open and a new Public Safety facility with space to lease out and a Police precinct must be built to cover the west. We need to generate revenue not raise taxes to pay for the improvements. One way is to regionalize our Enhanced 911 dispatch service. We have a system that is tried and proven. Overseen by Police Command Officers, this service will be offered to communities in the greater Marlborough Belt of Gold.

An ambulance service staffed by reserve fire and police officers will be explored for potential return on investment for the tax payers. We have a great workforce working for the City. All employees will be empowered to bring innovation forward. We will use the budget process to promote and scrutinize new ideas. We want service excellence across the board. As Fire Chief I brought many ideas forward through the budget process. Empowered the firefighters to write the specifications for the purchases of new gear and air paks. I will bring management by objectives back to our City.

The Main Street plan needs more green space and parking decks. Marlborough has the foundation but is stuck in progress. I need your vote to bring about the changes necessary to get us back on track.

Candidates can submit letters for publication to charlene.arsenault@patch.com.