Health & Fitness
Integrity, Maturity, and Transparency
Who's who among Amherst's candidates for Selectman? What have they done and what do they stand for?
Dr. Martin Luther King, JR. is quoted as saying that, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” On March 12th, we vote for two new selectmen, and there is much to consider before casting your vote. Now more than ever, we must synthesize all that we have seen in the past months to make an informed and equitable decision.
Where have the candidates stood in “times of challenge and controversy”? Ms. Marilyn Peterman served on the Board for almost two decades and has been quick to attack any and all who question her. On this Amherst Patch site alone, Ms. Peterman has called taxpayers who question her “ill-informed” about issues. She has gone on to say that the individual that questioned her was “a perfect example of what kind of citizen makes Amherst less than what it should be.” Yikes. Outside of writing a scathing response to former Fire Chief Rick Crocker, who voiced his concerns as a taxpayer on the Patch website, Ms. Peterman also has stated that “Those who continue to support the present [Town Administrator] need a lot more information not supplied by the TA,” and that “It is unattractive for Mr. O'Mara to continue to point fingers at everyone and anyone including former employees instead of standing up and taking responsibility.” Really, Ms. Peterman? What information do you have that any of us do not? Also, who is really pointing fingers in this Town? It seems to be your expertise.
Find out what's happening in Amherstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Another candidate for Selectman, Mr. Reed Panasiti is also recycled material, having served on the Board previously, and has been quick to accost those who may criticize him. Let us not forget that Mr. Panasiti served on the Board when they terminated former Health Officer Dr. Starke under circumstances which were questionable at best. Can someone with a history as obfuscated as Mr. Panasiti really stand for the transparency and integrity that he claims to represent? In case you missed it, the termination process can be seen here:
Find out what's happening in Amherstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
So, which candidates have stood tall during all these trying times? Dwight Brew, through all of the recent mess that the Board of Selectmen has made, was the most transparent elected official. He always strove to inform the citizenry on all matters, and often took time to explain why he voted the way he did, or to clarify as much as possible in public session.
John D’Angelo is a newcomer and, unlike some other candidates, is not a career politician. He will be an excellent asset to the Town through these trying times via his impartiality, sans preconceived notions of ‘small town politics’, and business experience.
I ask that you join me in voting for Dwight Brew and John D’Angelo on March 12th.
