Why One Winchester?

Did you know that about 350 volunteers – or nearly 1.6% of Winchester's population – make Winchester’s Town Government work? These people, your fellow community members, take time away from their families, friends and work to give back to our community. Winchester is incredibly lucky to have so much participation from so many people who care deeply about their town and one another.

Each volunteer is unique, sharing special skills for the betterment of our community. They include lawyers, architects, urban planners, engineers, financial planners, investment advisors, construction managers, small business owners, writers, scientists, and environmental engineers. Many have doctorates and other advanced degrees in their fields of expertise. And each brings to boards, commissions and Town Meeting a wealth of talent and experience – as well as their own unique, informed perspective.

This Tuesday we are holding a town-wide vote to consider a budget override. As both a Town Meeting member and an elected member of the Planning Board, I have watched and participated in the review of our revenue and expenses. I see exactly what is going on. I have watched many volunteers devote countless hours of their personal time poring over and analyzing our finances to reach the conclusion that, yes, we need an override. The Finance Committee, Select Board, and School Committee have all voted unanimous on this position.

I have also seen our Town Manager, with fresh eyes, analyze every line item on both sides of the ledger – all expenses, and every fee and revenue source. I have heard her speak confidently and with conviction that this is the wisest path for Winchester. She, Dr. Judy Evans, Superintendent of Schools, and members of the Finance Committee have opened their doors any time of day (or night) to meet with any resident who requests their time to answer any question regarding the override and finances.

An override can tear a town apart. But it can also bring us together. I chose the latter course and chaired One Winchester because I believe in our town’s professional staff and our volunteers. I also believe it is the right thing to do for our town. I will be voting “Yes” to support public safety, our children’s education, and maintenance of the assets we all share. But, more importantly, I hope that my vote will also demonstrate my appreciation for all of the volunteers who give freely of themselves for something larger than themselves, something we all believe in: Winchester.

I ask you to join me in voting “Yes” on Tuesday and show that we are One Winchester.

All the best,

Heather von Mering