It may be easy to ignore this April’s town election. No override. No contested race on the ballot except for town moderator. That race, however, is critical.
We’re voting for Adam Dash.
The town moderator’s basic “job” is to run Town Meeting. For Belmont to run properly, Town Meeting must run properly. In this election, residents must choose who they want to “hire” to run our local legislature.
An effective moderator must not only understand the legislative process, but must also have sufficient substantive knowledge to see how issues interact. A budget issue not only requires a knowledge of finance, but also an understanding of pensions, planning, education, and government administration.
This knowledge is important not merely to run Town Meeting but also to make appointments.
One of Adam’s strengths is his understanding of the breadth of knowledge and experiences needed for committees. For example, the Warrant Committee needs not only financial expertise, but also attorneys, zoning experts, and persons with HR/pension experience.
Adam has consistently shown both his ability and his willingness to bring a range of people and perspectives into Town government. Indeed, while on the Select Board, Adam made a special effort to involve people who had not previously been involved.
One instance stands out. A “new” person came before the Select Board having particular expertise on the issue being discussed. Afterwards, Adam spoke to her not only about the issue, but also about getting involved, and how she could further contribute. Though initially reticent, ultimately, this resident decided to jump in and is still making ongoing contributions. When speaking of involvement, and of diversity, Adam not only talks the talk, but he walks the walk.
In this election, Belmont really needs to hire the most qualified person to be town moderator. Adam Dash is that person.
Roger Colton and Anne Lougée, Warwick Road