Selectman Hopeful: Wilmington Election Shouldn't Be 'Us Vs. Them'

WILMINGTON, MA — Mark Maselli, who is one of six candidates running for two seats on the Wilmington Board of Selectmen that are up for reelection in the April 27 town election, released this statement Thursday. Maselli is running for the seats currently held by Greg Bendel and Kevin Caira, who are both running for reelection.

There’s one topic I’ve been very quiet about and would like to bring to the attention of Wilmington’s voters and that is where I, Mark Maselli, stand in this race. I want to start off by mentioning this is MY perspective and I would be happy to discuss this further with anyone wanting to do so.

I’ve noticed a clear ideological split down the middle between some of my opponents, which honestly makes me a little sad and disappointed. This divide has been apparent both on social media as well as at the debate - which you can watch and see for yourself. I want to make my position clear to all voters: I don’t believe that this election should be approached by an “us vs. them” mentality. I think my opponents and I all have a common goal and that is to promote the best interests of Wilmington and finding solutions that will benefit our constituents the most.

My concern here is that some voters are seeing this election as a divisive event, rather than one that should be uniting the town. I’ve seen attacks and comments on social media as well as remarks in some of the letters to the editor. They’re discouraging and divisive. As a candidate for the Board of Selectmen, that concerns me. It's not about ousting a ‘regime’ or starting a new one. It's about individuals wanting to be an integral part of what happens in our town - not about taking sides.

My point here is that I ask voters to think of the following before heading to the polls on Saturday, April 27:

• Which candidate(s) will bring civility and productivity to the board?
• Which candidate(s) will most closely bring your voice to the board?
• What does each candidate want to accomplish/solve?
• Has this candidate shown honesty and transparency in their campaign/history with the town?

I call on my opponents and voters to unite through positive action that will benefit the Town of Wilmington and its citizens. Thank you and best of luck to my opponents.

Regards,

Mark Maselli
Candidate for the Wilmington Board of Selectmen