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To the editor:
I write this letter in support of Tom Kehoe for selectman.
As a fellow selectman, I have worked with Tom for the past six years. For two of those years, he served as my vice chairman when I was chairman. He has served as chairman for the past two years.
Tom has clearly demonstrated that he has the skills, experience and wisdom that are integral to being an effective selectman.
Tom has an understanding of the complexity of the many matters before the town. He studies the issues in depth, shares that information with the board, and leads us with confidence, thoroughness and fairness. He has worked diligently and effectively to create better communication between the town and the schools.
This has been particularly important given we are a regional district; school issues and finances involve not only Manchester but Essex as well. He served on the Planning Board for five years gaining additional insight into town issues. He commits considerable time to help people with their concerns. He is a listener, an arbitrator; he is open to and encourages ideas from others.
When complex or controversial issues are before the board, Tom works effectively and fairly to reach resolution. He stays the course. He does what he feels is in the best interest of the town.
Integrity, vision, dedication and common sense — these are qualities that Tom brings to his job as Selectman. He is well-respected by his peers and area town officials. He represents Manchester with honor and pride.
For Tom, it's not just about being selectman. He has an incredibly deep and passionate sense of community evidenced by more than 45 years in Boy Scouting, by chairing the annual Halloween party, by organizing the holiday Santa ride.
Tom has been a call firefighter for more than 40 years, he has been instrumental in developing the Cape Ann Emergency Planning Team and he has dedicated a great deal of time to programs that assure the safety and well-being of not only of Manchester residents, but of our friends and neighbors in area communities.
Not only is Tom a third-generation resident, he is a taxpayer. He understands and personally shares the impact that many board decisions have on residents and the tax burden they bear.
It is with pride and confidence that I will go to the polls on May 15 and vote for Tom Kehoe for selectman. I urge you to join me in voting for Tom — it's a vote for Manchester as well.
Sue Thorne
Manchester
Member, Manchester Board of Selectmen
