Letter: Spellios' Record, Character Make Him Right Choice for Selectman

This isn’t just another letter in support, because this isn’t just another candidate. In my opinion, Peter Spellios is one of the best candidates to run for this office in the past 15 years.

About 10 years ago, I joined the Swampscott Zoning Board of Appeals and first met Peter Spellios. Peter welcomed me and, despite my lack of experience on the ZBA, invited my opinions on issues debated before the Board. I soon realized Peter’s reputation, as one of the top land use lawyers in Massachusetts, was well deserved. I learned that Peter is brilliant but didn’t flaunt his intellect; he doesn’t have an ego requiring confirmation. Rather, Peter listened to Petitioners and their neighbors, asked pertinent questions and encouraged different points of view from the ZBA members. Peter rarely missed a meeting and was always prepared.

I learned a lot about Peter’s leadership skills during his time on the Board. The ZBA proved to be an interesting place and, often, it is the only interaction residents have with town government, either as a petitioner or as an abutter. Disputes often involve neighbors and emotions can run high. Peter effectively managed expectations and thoroughly explained his position on issues. I can unequivocally state that Peter treated people with respect, thoroughly followed the law, and possesses a strong moral compass. Peter and I often disagreed on the interpretation of the Zoning Bylaw. At the end of our debates, I felt that Peter considered and respected my position. As Chairman, Peter permitted interested parties to address petitions. Often, at least one party on either side of a contested Petition is likely to receive a decision adverse to their interest. Parties sometimes direct their frustration or anger at the Board members. Peter took this in stride; he is deeply principled and not afraid to stand up and fight for what he believes in. He is passionate about Swampscott and I am a big fan.

As an example of Peter’s vision, dedication and leadership, I would direct voters to review the history of our Zoning Bylaw. After studying and applying the prior Bylaw and realizing several flaws, including the lack of objective criteria afforded to the Zoning Board for awarding dimensional and other relief, Peter recommended a comprehensive review. Peter volunteered for the daunting task of a public review and draft of a new Zoning Bylaw. He and a few other volunteers did the work of an entire law firm in drafting our current bylaw – thus saving the town a great deal of money. Though few people attended any of the public hearings on the bylaw review, Peter attended every meeting. After Town Meeting approved the new Bylaw, Peter’s efforts, to reduce the Zoning Board’s discretion and establish increased consistency in dimensional relief and other important zoning matters, was realized. Peter’s vision reduced the potential for zoning relief (or the denial of zoning relief) based upon the popularity of the party in support or in opposition.

I’ve witnessed Peter’s thorough focus on the protection of project abutters. Peter anticipates crucial details and addresses them.

Over the last few years, I developed a friendship with Peter. Peter is a warm and caring husband, father, son and brother. I’ve admired Peter’s deep commitment to his family and the tremendous respect and admiration he has for his wife. I’ve seen how Peter cares about my family and others. He is selfless and humble.

I feel compelled to tell you that I greatly like and respect Peter’s opponent, Glenn Kessler. I enjoy a friendship with Glenn and I hope this will continue despite my support of Peter’s candidacy. Peter is simply too strong of a candidate not to get behind.

I hope you get a chance to meet Peter during the campaign. I emphatically support Peter Spellios and urge you to do the same.

Marc Kornitsky
15 Brown Rd
Swampscott, MA