Re-Elect Glenn Kessler for Selectman

  Glenn Kessler is pleased to announce his plans to run for a second term on the Board of Selectmen, continuing to advocate for Swampscott’s residents, to embrace public input regarding issues affecting the town, and to require expanded levels of transparency in town government.

  “It‘s been an honor and privilege to work with Swampscott residents and town officials for the last three years,” Kessler said.  Glenn has gained valuable experience and insight into critical issues affecting the town and its diverse population due to his consistent involvement as Selectman liaison to numerous town committees, including:

Athletic Field Advisory Committee;

Athletic Field Study Committee;

Veterans Committee;

Council on Aging;

Disability Commission;

Renewable Energy Committee;

Regionalization Committee; and

Harbor and Waterfront Advisory Committee.

  Because he attends each committee's meetings, Selectman Kessler has been able to partner with town departments to resolve important issues crucial to a better Swampscott.  For instance, Glenn has worked with the Department of Public Works director to continue substantial repairs to the Puritan Road seawall and to complete much needed repairs to the town pier railings and pilings.

  Glenn does not forget our veterans.  He routinely attends their memorial functions to pay tribute to their service, and he assisted the procurement of a special single-day liquor license at the Swampscott VFW for the North Shore Veterans’ Appreciation Day Parade held last year.

  While working with the Athletic Field Study Committee, Glenn performed detailed research into the many aspects of the proposed Blocksidge Field Renovations, including turf field construction, materials and safety, and recommended the committee keep the proposed project’s costs down without sacrificing quality while simultaneously promoting a public/private partnership.  This approach was eventually recommended by the AFSC.

  Even before Kessler was elected to the Board of Selectmen, he was deeply involved in the community.  Kessler served on the Board of Directors of Swampscott Little League, coached at five different levels of youth softball, and served on the Recreation Commission.  Glenn also coached for Swampscott Youth Soccer Association and chaperoned for the Nashoba Valley Ski Club at the YMCA.

  Volunteer activities led Kessler to interact closely with residents who voiced concerns regarding the direction that prior leadership had taken.  Under his guidance, taxpayer opinions matter.  Glenn became, and remains committed, to making a difference and to promoting a more inclusive town government in which residents have a constant voice.

  Kessler’s campaign in 2012 emphasized transparency, a consistent position which underscores his robust connection between people and government.  Glenn has held true to his promise to involve residents by holding office hours at Whole Foods Market throughout his three year term.  Kessler has invited residents to discuss anything on their minds and to talk about town issues.  “Interactions with town folks are always enriching and informative,” and he believes the residents have enjoyed the informal access to his representation of their needs and goals.  Kessler plans to continue citizen input throughout his tenure on the Board.

  While participating in Selectmen meetings, Kessler routinely urges his fellow Selectmen to err on the side of transparency and open debate.  He makes his beliefs well known, but has always been willing to listen to opposing views from Selectmen, town officials, and most importantly, our residents.  For Kessler, giving townwide notice and an opportunity to be heard is of paramount importance in a small town like Swampscott.  Kessler will continue listening to residents and will try his best to build consensus on all issues.

  “I want to keep an open mind on the issues we have in front of us,” Kessler said.  “The town is facing a myriad of challenges and I want to work cooperatively with town officials to move Swampscott forward.”

  “As a Selectman, I have always put our residents first and politics second.  I‘ve thoroughly enjoyed serving the people and would be honored to represent Swampscott for three more years.”

  Please vote for Glenn Kessler on Tuesday, April 28.