Politics & Government
Highlights From Selectman David Gay's Live Chat On Patch
Selectman David Gay engaged in a live chat with residents on Feb. 8.
Economic development, the Town Charter and the upcoming election were just some of the topics discussed when we had "Lunch With ... Selectman David Gay" on Wednesday, Feb. 8.
Here are some of the top questions and answers from the chat.
Tewksbury Patch: David what were your impressions of the two public hearings on the town charter that finished up last night?
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Gail: It seems we are still debating whether to have a Town Council. Would a Town Council be better for economic growth in Town?
David Gay: No it really wouldn't have an impact for new growth. The process now is expedited to foster permitting.
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Wayne Knight: Mr. Gay, what type of business is Tewksbury trying to attract? What type of business is Tewksbury trying to reject?
David Gay: We would like to see a biotech company come into to Tewksbury. I'm not aware of discussions to reject businesses.Wayne Knight: Mr. Gay, what are you doing to try and keep the south fire station open year round? It does not seem like it is a priority for the town manager.
David Gay: Yes it is a priority. The fire station will be open more this year and we are pushing to find a solution to keep it open year round. I live in that end of town and I am not happy that it is closed for even a short.
Tewksbury Patch: David, what are the main selling points about Tewksbury that you are using to try and attract industries to move here?
David Gay: The location to major highways and the many nice activities Tewksbury has to offer. A business and community guide was put together to give businesses to highlight what we have.
Shaun: I do like the cleaned up look at the old Grand Prix location. Do you have any info on what is going to be going in there?I have heard a few rumors of "Family Fun Center" types of places.
David Gay: Yes a miniature gold and laser tag complex will go in the old grand prix site. Something for younger people to do would be welcomed.
Shaun: What is happening at the old Direct Auto parts place? I know the fallen in building and fencing have been a thorn in the side for residents. Is construction going to start again soon?
David Gay: Great question Shaun! The company was putting up a building for a Subway subshop but ran out of money to finish the project. I've been told that within 6 months construction will start again. Yes it looks terrible.
Tewksbury Patch: David I'd be remiss if I didnt bring up the municipal election. It's looking like this might be a five-man race for two seats on the Board of Selectmen presently held by you and Scott Wilson. The more the merrier?
David Gay: Competition is always good. It shows people are interested in their town government and...I love the election season!
Wayne Knight: Mr. Gay, what is taking the town hall renovation project so long to get started? It seems like that was approved a long time ago. Thanks!
David Gay: There was a delay because the current architect had to be changed. It will be on track again soon.
Rodney: David could you explain why you would forward and distribute an email from a colleague? You met with Mr Wilson about your upcoming election and discussed endorsing and helping eeach other. Now you distribute an email that takes everything out of context. I seriously question your integrity and motivation.
David Gay: Rodney the email was not out of context at all but very unprofessional and I took great exception to it.
Next week, we have "Lunch With ... School Committee Chair Krissy Polimeno and School Superintendent Dr. John O'Connor." Log on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 12 p.m.
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