Letter: 'Enthusiasm' for Cliff as Selectman

Editor's Note: For a full collection of support letters for these candidates, click on his hyperlinked name at the bottom of this letter under "Related Topics."

I am writing to endorse with enthusiasm Gordon Cliff for the Board of Selectmen. Gordon has made clear in his candidate’s statement his level-headed approach to important problems. I feel that he will join the Board of Selectmen with an attitude of keeping the big picture in mind, of addressing issues with reasoned analysis, and of deciding based on good ideas. He will listen to others while providing in-depth understanding of pros and cons and will make decisions with the best outcomes for the whole town in mind.

Gordon has analyzed some important issues at the outset. He thinks keeping the contributions to the CPA at 1.5 percnet is a better approach for investment in our future than setting it low. I agree; we need this investment to anticipate worthy actions, e.g., purchasing Mainstone land.  He believes that the town is run effectively, without the need for extra audits. I agree, based on my 25 years of serving on various committees in town. He thinks the Finance Committee should continue to be appointed. I agree. As Larry Krakauer put it some years ago, the analysis of all articles at Town Meeting by a group selected for their expertise is an integral part of informing voters on issues. Gordon thinks that we need to place our trust in Town officials who are the most knowledgeable on capital items, including a review of requests by the Finance Committee.  I agree.  Finally, Gordon believes that funding the DPW facility through debt exclusion is a wise choice. I agree. In reaching these opinions, Gordon lays out his reasons logically and succinctly. These are attributes that will make him an effective member of the Board.

I think Gordon should be elected to the Board of Selectmen because of his knowledge of issues, his reasoned approach to deciding questions of importance to the Town, and his enthusiasm for serving. I hope you will join me in voting for Gordon Cliff on Tuesday, 2 April 2013.

Fred Knight
10 Trinity Place

Check out coverage of Wayland's 2013 Town Election, including all the Letters to the Editor, on our topic page, Wayland Town Election 2013.