Candidate Q&A: Brian Shaughnessy is Running for Town Moderator

Brian Shaughnessy ran and lost against incumbent Bedford Town Moderator Ryk Bullock in 2008. Four years later, he's running again, and he says he hopes his experience as both a lawyer and active community member will benefit him in the election, and help him serve should he defeat Bullock on March 13.

Shaughnessy provided the following information about himself in response to a Bedford Patch inquiry into his profile and qualifications:

Bedford Patch: Why are you running for Bedford Town Moderator? 

Shaughnessy:The position of moderator is a visible position in the community. The Town of Bedford is one of the best communities in the State of New Hampshire and deserves a moderator that will discharge the duties of moderator in an efficient manner, free of any bias or personal agenda, and will project a professional and courteous demeanor to the citizens and employees of the Town. My education and experience as a lawyer, as well as my experience as a leader of many non-profit organizations, qualifies me for this position. I believe I have demonstrated my commitment to the community and earned a reputation for being a hard worker who is fair and open minded, and I would be honored to participate in our town government as moderator.

Bedford Patch: What do you see as the biggest challenges ahead for the town?

Shaughnessy:The biggest challenge for the Town is to continue to provide the level of excellent services the town has provided in the past while keeping the tax rate at a manageable level. We need to preserve the small town character of Bedford and respect the fact that many citizen’s are on a fixed income and cannot afford to continue to pay increasing real estate taxes and still live in Bedford.

Bedford Patch: What qualifications would make you a good fit for Town Moderator?

Shaughnessy: I have dedicated thousands of volunteer hours helping make the Town of Bedford a great community to live in, and to help less fortunate New Hampshire residents who are faced with homelessness and family crisis due to lack of resources. My education and experience as a lawyer has allowed me the opportunity to contribute in a substantial way to a number of non-profit organizations.

Bedford Patch: Is there any other information you'd like to provide for the benefit of Bedford voters?

Shaughnessy: I would be honored to be the next moderator of the Town of Bedford and be able to bring the same level of expertise and community service to the position of moderator.