I’ve watched Mike Crowley evolve into the role of moderator and I support his reelection.
He succeeded the former moderator who retired after many years and with whom members had become accustomed to his persona, preferences and procedures. A hard act to follow for sure.
Most talk about this election seems to be around “efficiency”‘and “fairness” of procedures and I struggle to understand what exactly the beef is?
Sure, Mike has sometimes got the order of calling for committee reports mixed up but he’s been reminded and promptly corrected himself. There is no malicious intent here and no outcome was impacted by these missteps. Town Meeting is a moving target and even the previous moderator had to course correct at times to reign in some kerfuffle or other. And some felt that moderator was a little heavy handed at times.
We are a passionate group and managing the process is no easy task. But Mike has a steady temperament, allows objections to be heard before making a ruling and calls on legal counsel for clarification when necessary. He is a strong advocate for the town meeting process and has actively encouraged more people to serve.
A critical piece of the moderator’s job is committee appointments. While it can be easy to reappoint those willing to serve, Mike’s approach has been to appoint people who have professional knowledge or temperament to add value and balance to a committee. I appreciate his approach and see no reason for a challenge. I’m all about future decisions and endeavors that will focus on our financial footing and strategic well being and Mike Crowley has that goal as well. Please join me in re electing Mike Crowley for Moderator.
Rosemary Burke, Prospect Street