SUDBURY IS TOWN, NOT A BUSINESS

Some candidates have said Sudbury should be run like a business, a corporation.

A corporation exists to make money for its shareholders.  A town is judged, most importantly, by the quality of life of its residents.

Depending on the business cycle, a corporation can expand or contract, hire or fire, adjust inventories, and relocate facilities.  Sudbury has a relatively stable population.  Our parks and facilities need maintenance every year, no matter the economy.  Roads need upkeep and plowing in boom or recession.  A fire or other emergency needs qualified and trained responders on the ready every day.  Our schools are not rubber bands.

Naturally, good financial management and transparency are essential.  My  opponent has frequently criticized the town, in my view unfairly, in those areas.  For example, Sudbury received the Distinguished Budget Award for 5 years beginning in 2007 for its Budget and Financing Plan.  We have long had the highest possible credit rating.  In May, Sudbury received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting, the highest recognition for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. 

I believe we should strive for a smooth fiscal road: not spending every dime in good times, saving for lean times, and having a reserve fund available to soften the blow if we must cut back.  Then fluctuations in the economy or in state aid will not have as significant an impact on the quality of education, or on the Town’s ability to provide necessary services.  At town meeting I voted in favor of adding to the town’s reserve fund.  My opponent, Mr. De Pompei, voted against it.  Where he sees problems, I see solutions.

No doubt, we will face daunting challenges in the future, and I do not have all the answers.  Short cuts and quick fixes are not my style.  I ask every resident for considered input to illuminate the best way forward, and help me, as a selectman, make the most informed decisions.

We have an obligation to steward our town for future generations.  As we do so, we demonstrate pride and commitment to our own community.

Bringing the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail to Sudbury, which has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, is one way to permanently improve our quality of life.

If we take care of Sudbury, Sudbury will take care of us. 

I respectfully ask for your vote on June 25.

Leonard Simon